Just when the entertainment world felt like it couldn't possibly sustain even just a single shared universe on top of what we already have, yet another contender is about to enter the ring. The "John Wick" franchise's first attempt at expanding its influence to the small screen with "The Continental," uh, didn't go very well, to put it mildly. But as the old adage goes, if at first you don't succeed at strip-mining IP for every cent it's worth, try, try again.
The good news is that, this time around, director Chad Stahelski will be much more involved with at least two new upcoming "John Wick" shows. We've known about the Ana de Armas-starring "Ballerina" spinoff film, but this is the first we've heard about both an anime spin-off and a separate live-action series that will dive even deeper into the mythical world-building from the movies. In an appearance...
The good news is that, this time around, director Chad Stahelski will be much more involved with at least two new upcoming "John Wick" shows. We've known about the Ana de Armas-starring "Ballerina" spinoff film, but this is the first we've heard about both an anime spin-off and a separate live-action series that will dive even deeper into the mythical world-building from the movies. In an appearance...
- 11/9/2023
- by Jeremy Mathai
- Slash Film
This post contains spoilers for Netflix's "The Witcher" and the source material.
In Netflix's adaptation of the megapopular "Witcher" saga, Yennefer of Vengerberg (Anya Chalotra) has come a long way from being a timid girl unaware of her true potential and power. Three seasons in, Yen symbolizes the epitome of the flawed sensibilities that come with unbridled power -- while she is susceptible to moral missteps, she is never let off easy for her actions and actively takes the onus to do better. The roots of her character stem from Andrzej Sapkowski's "The Witcher" novel series, where Yen is a blunt, no-nonsense sorcerer who shields her tenderness with tough cynicism. Once we get to know her heart, it is clear that Yen is loyal to the core, and she's willing to do anything for the loves she loves. Chalotra's rendition is true to this core aspect, despite several...
In Netflix's adaptation of the megapopular "Witcher" saga, Yennefer of Vengerberg (Anya Chalotra) has come a long way from being a timid girl unaware of her true potential and power. Three seasons in, Yen symbolizes the epitome of the flawed sensibilities that come with unbridled power -- while she is susceptible to moral missteps, she is never let off easy for her actions and actively takes the onus to do better. The roots of her character stem from Andrzej Sapkowski's "The Witcher" novel series, where Yen is a blunt, no-nonsense sorcerer who shields her tenderness with tough cynicism. Once we get to know her heart, it is clear that Yen is loyal to the core, and she's willing to do anything for the loves she loves. Chalotra's rendition is true to this core aspect, despite several...
- 8/20/2023
- by Debopriyaa Dutta
- Slash Film
This post contains spoilers for "The Witcher" season 3 part 2.
Of all the supporting characters who fill out the sprawling cast of "The Witcher," Tissaia de Vries (MyAnna Buring) might be the most underrated. Yennefer's mother figure also served as Aretuza's headmistress, a strong and sometimes exacting influence on generations of girls who grew up into powerful, world-changing women. That legacy wasn't enough to keep her going after she failed to save her students from the violent aftermath of a coup attempt or stop her lover Vilgefortz (Mahesh Jadu) from going after Ciri (Freya Allan). In the season 3 finale of Netflix's adaptation of "The Witcher" book series, Tissaia commits suicide, breaking the heart of her former students -- especially Yen.
Tissaia's death comes just after Buring's most heart-wrenching performance to date, in which Yennefer finds her mentor obsessing over the movements of the opposing armies after accidentally instigating the attack...
Of all the supporting characters who fill out the sprawling cast of "The Witcher," Tissaia de Vries (MyAnna Buring) might be the most underrated. Yennefer's mother figure also served as Aretuza's headmistress, a strong and sometimes exacting influence on generations of girls who grew up into powerful, world-changing women. That legacy wasn't enough to keep her going after she failed to save her students from the violent aftermath of a coup attempt or stop her lover Vilgefortz (Mahesh Jadu) from going after Ciri (Freya Allan). In the season 3 finale of Netflix's adaptation of "The Witcher" book series, Tissaia commits suicide, breaking the heart of her former students -- especially Yen.
Tissaia's death comes just after Buring's most heart-wrenching performance to date, in which Yennefer finds her mentor obsessing over the movements of the opposing armies after accidentally instigating the attack...
- 7/28/2023
- by Valerie Ettenhofer
- Slash Film
In the sixth episode of The Witcher season 3, part two, Aretuza met a tragic fate as it was mercilessly razed to the ground. The powerful forces of Scoia’tael and Nilfgaardian soldiers had managed to infiltrate the Brotherhood, cunningly aided by Vilgefortz, resulting in a fierce and devastating battle with the mages. Amidst the chaos, Ciri tried to evade Vilgefortz, as she didn’t want to become the apprentice of such a malevolent mage. She made her way inside Tor Lara and decided to take action by exploding the obelisk.
However, the aftermath left her separated and disoriented in a desolate landscape, completely alone, and facing a perilous journey on her own. Meanwhile, Geralt’s life hung in the balance due to the severe injuries he endured during his altercation with Vilgefortz. But thanks to Triss’s intervention, he didn’t give up on his life and survived the fatal injuries.
However, the aftermath left her separated and disoriented in a desolate landscape, completely alone, and facing a perilous journey on her own. Meanwhile, Geralt’s life hung in the balance due to the severe injuries he endured during his altercation with Vilgefortz. But thanks to Triss’s intervention, he didn’t give up on his life and survived the fatal injuries.
- 7/28/2023
- by Poulami Nanda
- Film Fugitives
This post contains spoilers for Netflix's "The Witcher."
Andrzej Sapkowski's "Time of Contempt" — the second installment in his popular "The Witcher" novel series — throws the Continent into chaos from the get-go. With Nilfgaard trying to take over the rest of the Continent, Redania hatches their own plans to get the upper hand. However, unbeknownst to them, Nilfgaard is already one step ahead. These machinations culminate in the Conclave of the Mages right after the Thanedd Ball in Aretuza — a violent event in the history of the Continent that demolished the Brotherhood from within, which directly destabilized the power structures required to keep usurpers like Emperor Emhyr in check. Season 3 of "The Witcher" focuses exclusively on the Thanedd event and its disastrous aftermath, which tears Geralt (Henry Cavill), Yeneffer (Anya Chalotra), and Ciri (Freya Allan) apart once again.
With Cavill's departure at the end of this season, this particular...
Andrzej Sapkowski's "Time of Contempt" — the second installment in his popular "The Witcher" novel series — throws the Continent into chaos from the get-go. With Nilfgaard trying to take over the rest of the Continent, Redania hatches their own plans to get the upper hand. However, unbeknownst to them, Nilfgaard is already one step ahead. These machinations culminate in the Conclave of the Mages right after the Thanedd Ball in Aretuza — a violent event in the history of the Continent that demolished the Brotherhood from within, which directly destabilized the power structures required to keep usurpers like Emperor Emhyr in check. Season 3 of "The Witcher" focuses exclusively on the Thanedd event and its disastrous aftermath, which tears Geralt (Henry Cavill), Yeneffer (Anya Chalotra), and Ciri (Freya Allan) apart once again.
With Cavill's departure at the end of this season, this particular...
- 7/27/2023
- by Debopriyaa Dutta
- Slash Film
This post contains spoilers for Netflix's "The Witcher."
In "The Witcher," Ciri (Freya Allan) has experienced a rocky, eventful journey so far, with every faction in the Continent hounding her for her Elder Blood. Things get more intense for Ciri in season 3, as she quickly realizes that her existence is only a gateway to chaos and bloodshed, leaving her feeling hopeless and devastated. However, Volume II has fresh horrors in store for her, as the final episodes will embrace her Korath desert arc, which is an experience that will fundamentally change Ciri for better or worse.
To provide brief and relevant context, Ciri ends up teleporting to Korath after the Thanedd coup and has no way to return to Geralt (Henry Cavill) and her loved ones. The desert is harsh and inhabitable, and hours of heat exposure and thirst leave Ciri weak and delirious. After she accidentally eats a...
In "The Witcher," Ciri (Freya Allan) has experienced a rocky, eventful journey so far, with every faction in the Continent hounding her for her Elder Blood. Things get more intense for Ciri in season 3, as she quickly realizes that her existence is only a gateway to chaos and bloodshed, leaving her feeling hopeless and devastated. However, Volume II has fresh horrors in store for her, as the final episodes will embrace her Korath desert arc, which is an experience that will fundamentally change Ciri for better or worse.
To provide brief and relevant context, Ciri ends up teleporting to Korath after the Thanedd coup and has no way to return to Geralt (Henry Cavill) and her loved ones. The desert is harsh and inhabitable, and hours of heat exposure and thirst leave Ciri weak and delirious. After she accidentally eats a...
- 7/27/2023
- by Debopriyaa Dutta
- Slash Film
For his first directing effort in two decades, Yen is his own star in hectic historical action-romance featuring absolutely top-notch fight scenes
It’s hard to square martial arts main man Donnie Yen’s increasing entanglement with the Chinese Communist party with the concern for China’s ethnic minorities on show in his first directorial effort for 20 years. Playing Qiao Feng, top dog of the ragamuffin Beggars’ Gang during the Song dynasty, he finds out that his parents were in fact hairy Khitan nomads from the steppes. With the scenes of Khitan refugees being mistreated by callous military goons, you can’t help but think of the plight of the Uyghurs.
Things don’t look good for Qiao when he is framed for four murders in succession: the deputy leader of the gang, his adoptive parents and his old Shaolin master. (The Oscar Wilde misfortune/carelessness adage would seem to apply here.
It’s hard to square martial arts main man Donnie Yen’s increasing entanglement with the Chinese Communist party with the concern for China’s ethnic minorities on show in his first directorial effort for 20 years. Playing Qiao Feng, top dog of the ragamuffin Beggars’ Gang during the Song dynasty, he finds out that his parents were in fact hairy Khitan nomads from the steppes. With the scenes of Khitan refugees being mistreated by callous military goons, you can’t help but think of the plight of the Uyghurs.
Things don’t look good for Qiao when he is framed for four murders in succession: the deputy leader of the gang, his adoptive parents and his old Shaolin master. (The Oscar Wilde misfortune/carelessness adage would seem to apply here.
- 7/17/2023
- by Phil Hoad
- The Guardian - Film News
If there’s only one thing you take away from The Witcher‘s third season premiere, now streaming on Netflix, let it be this: Geralt and Yennefer are one of the hottest couples on television right now.
No one would blame you for forgetting that fact, of course, since it’s been roughly 18 months since the last season came out. But now that we’ve been reunited with the fraught lovers at long last, you’d have to be willfully ignorant not to ‘ship them with every ounce of your being.
More from TVLineNetflix's Monster Season 2 Casts Its Menendez Brothers,...
No one would blame you for forgetting that fact, of course, since it’s been roughly 18 months since the last season came out. But now that we’ve been reunited with the fraught lovers at long last, you’d have to be willfully ignorant not to ‘ship them with every ounce of your being.
More from TVLineNetflix's Monster Season 2 Casts Its Menendez Brothers,...
- 6/29/2023
- by Andy Swift
- TVLine.com
After a long wait of two years, the third season of The Witcher has finally returned to our Netflix screens. The season kicks off with an explosive first episode, packed with thrilling action, captivating adventures, and an air of mystery. Picking up where season 2 left off, the story delves into the aftermath of the terrifying encounter between Voleth Meir and Ciri at Kaer Morhen. As months passed, Geralt, Yennefer and Ciri embarked on a journey, constantly moving from place to place to protect themselves from their enemies. Geralt still harbored trust issues with Yennefer, but deep down he believed that she was committed to ensuring a better future for Ciri.
Spoilers Ahead
Who Sent The Jackapace To Kill Ciri?
Episode 1 opened with Ciri, Geralt, and Yennefer traveling across the continent in search of a safe haven to elude their enemies. However, enemies from various factions relentlessly pursued Ciri, threatening her safety.
Spoilers Ahead
Who Sent The Jackapace To Kill Ciri?
Episode 1 opened with Ciri, Geralt, and Yennefer traveling across the continent in search of a safe haven to elude their enemies. However, enemies from various factions relentlessly pursued Ciri, threatening her safety.
- 6/29/2023
- by Poulami Nanda
- Film Fugitives
The last wuxia film Yen starred in was “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon: Sword of Destiny” (2016), since, although he was in “New Kung Fu Cult Master Part One” (2022) it was only a cameo. Now he is back as the leading man, producer and director in “Sakra”, a wuxia epic which is adapted from Jin Yong's (Louis Cha) novel “Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils” which deals with the Eight Races of Buddhist deities of the Buddhist cosmology. The Chinese title is loosely translated as “The Eight Books of the Heavenly Dragon: Qiao Feng Legacy.”
“Sakra” will debut on Blu-ray and DVD starting June 13 from Well Go USA.
Set during the time in which the Han Chinese dominated and the Song Dynasty is at war with the Liao Empire led by the Khitan race, Jin Yong's complex and long story involves three main protagonists plus a huge collection of flamboyant characters and their explorations...
“Sakra” will debut on Blu-ray and DVD starting June 13 from Well Go USA.
Set during the time in which the Han Chinese dominated and the Song Dynasty is at war with the Liao Empire led by the Khitan race, Jin Yong's complex and long story involves three main protagonists plus a huge collection of flamboyant characters and their explorations...
- 6/3/2023
- by David Chew
- AsianMoviePulse
Martial arts and stunt legend Scott Adkins got a chance to really go for it with his role in "John Wick: Chapter 4." After bugging franchise director Chad Stahelski for years to cast him in an actual role, the English stunt performer finally got his moment in the spotlight, playing the German head of the High Table, who's basically the bad boss at the end of the video game, Killa Harkan.
The hulking crime boss was a truly unique role for the prolific martial arts actor, who was previously known for his performance in "Undisputed II" and for playing karate expert and cartoonishly racist Marine gunnery sergeant Barton Geddes in "Ip Man 4: The Finale." That role saw him act opposite Hong Kong martial arts legend Donnie Yen, who would once again find himself faced with one of Adkins' grotesque villains in "John Wick: Chapter 4." But Killa Harkan was...
The hulking crime boss was a truly unique role for the prolific martial arts actor, who was previously known for his performance in "Undisputed II" and for playing karate expert and cartoonishly racist Marine gunnery sergeant Barton Geddes in "Ip Man 4: The Finale." That role saw him act opposite Hong Kong martial arts legend Donnie Yen, who would once again find himself faced with one of Adkins' grotesque villains in "John Wick: Chapter 4." But Killa Harkan was...
- 5/15/2023
- by Joe Roberts
- Slash Film
Exclusive: Signature Entertainment has snapped up rights for the UK and Ireland to Hong Kong-China action picture Sakra, directed by and starring Donnie Yen, from Well Go USA.
The Hong Kong-China co-production, which is based on the classic wuxia novel Demi-Gods And Semi-Devils by world-renowned novelist Louis Cha (also known by his pen name Jin Yong), marks the first time Yen has directed a film in nearly two decades. Yen recently starred in John Wick: Chapter 4 and is also known for his roles in Hong Kong’s Ip Man franchise.
Sakra is produced by China’s Wishart Media and Hong Kong’s Mandarin Motion Pictures, Shaw Brothers and Jing’s Production. Yen also produced with Zhe Liu and co-directed with Ka-Wai Kam (Big Brother).
In addition to Yen, the cast includes Chen Yuqi (Heavenly Sword And Dragon Slaying Sabre), Cya Liu (Limbo) and Eddie Cheung (Throw Down), with Kara Wai guest starring and special guest appearances by Ray Lui (Raging Fire) and Tsui Siu Ming (Kung Fu Jungle).
The actioner focuses on the fallout after a respected martial artist (Yen) is accused of murder and subsequently exiled, leaving him to search for answers about his own mysterious origin story and the unknown enemies working to destroy him.
The deal for UK and Ireland rights was negotiated between Signature Entertainment’s Chief Operating Officer Jon Bourdillon and Well Go USA’s Executive Vice President of Digital and Theatrical Distribution Jason Pfardrescher.
Bourdillon said: “We are delighted to be the home of Sakra in the UK and Ireland and can’t wait for audiences to see the epic action sequences that Donnie Yen has expertly devised.”
“We are thrilled to have Signature on board to bring Sakra to fans across Ireland and the United Kingdom,” said Pfardrescher. “Undeniably created as a love letter to the genre, Sakra is overflowing with the smooth artistry that characterizes the very best of wuxia as well as the hard-hitting action that fans know to expect from Donnie Yen.”...
The Hong Kong-China co-production, which is based on the classic wuxia novel Demi-Gods And Semi-Devils by world-renowned novelist Louis Cha (also known by his pen name Jin Yong), marks the first time Yen has directed a film in nearly two decades. Yen recently starred in John Wick: Chapter 4 and is also known for his roles in Hong Kong’s Ip Man franchise.
Sakra is produced by China’s Wishart Media and Hong Kong’s Mandarin Motion Pictures, Shaw Brothers and Jing’s Production. Yen also produced with Zhe Liu and co-directed with Ka-Wai Kam (Big Brother).
In addition to Yen, the cast includes Chen Yuqi (Heavenly Sword And Dragon Slaying Sabre), Cya Liu (Limbo) and Eddie Cheung (Throw Down), with Kara Wai guest starring and special guest appearances by Ray Lui (Raging Fire) and Tsui Siu Ming (Kung Fu Jungle).
The actioner focuses on the fallout after a respected martial artist (Yen) is accused of murder and subsequently exiled, leaving him to search for answers about his own mysterious origin story and the unknown enemies working to destroy him.
The deal for UK and Ireland rights was negotiated between Signature Entertainment’s Chief Operating Officer Jon Bourdillon and Well Go USA’s Executive Vice President of Digital and Theatrical Distribution Jason Pfardrescher.
Bourdillon said: “We are delighted to be the home of Sakra in the UK and Ireland and can’t wait for audiences to see the epic action sequences that Donnie Yen has expertly devised.”
“We are thrilled to have Signature on board to bring Sakra to fans across Ireland and the United Kingdom,” said Pfardrescher. “Undeniably created as a love letter to the genre, Sakra is overflowing with the smooth artistry that characterizes the very best of wuxia as well as the hard-hitting action that fans know to expect from Donnie Yen.”...
- 5/10/2023
- by Liz Shackleton
- Deadline Film + TV
I don't envy the editor of "John Wick: Chapter 4." Director Chad Stahelski basically used Lionsgate's money to shoot wildly extravagant action and combat sequences that went beyond anything in the previous "John Wick" movies — which, considering the action movie majesty of the "John Wick" franchise, is saying something.
Remember that club fight sequence in "Chapter 4," where Keanu Reeves' assassin faces off against stunt legend Scott Adkins in a fat suit? According to the film's stunt coordinators Stephen Dunlevy and Scott Rogers, it was actually the most challenging scene to film and believe it or not, was initially twice as long as what you see in the final movie. Then there's that entire third act that's basically one long action montage, as Baba Yaga fights his way across Paris toward his final showdown with Bill Skarsgård's Marquis Vincent de Gramont. And all of this even after Stahelski cut...
Remember that club fight sequence in "Chapter 4," where Keanu Reeves' assassin faces off against stunt legend Scott Adkins in a fat suit? According to the film's stunt coordinators Stephen Dunlevy and Scott Rogers, it was actually the most challenging scene to film and believe it or not, was initially twice as long as what you see in the final movie. Then there's that entire third act that's basically one long action montage, as Baba Yaga fights his way across Paris toward his final showdown with Bill Skarsgård's Marquis Vincent de Gramont. And all of this even after Stahelski cut...
- 5/7/2023
- by Joe Roberts
- Slash Film
Santa Monica, CA – Old friends and new foes come together when John Wick: Chapter 4 arrives Digtal May 23 and 4K Ultra HD Combo Pack (plus Blu-ray and Digital), Blu-ray Combo Pack (plus DVD and Digital), DVD & On Demand June 13 from Lionsgate. The high action-thriller, which has grossed a franchise-best $400 million+ at the global box office, directed by Chad Stahelski and written by Shay Hatten and Michael Finch, stars Keanu Reeves (The Matrix franchise) as he returns in the titular role, joined by franchise regulars Laurence Fishburne (The Matrix franchise), Lance Reddick (Fringe), and lan McShane (Deadwood) while welcoming Donnie Yen (Rogue One: A Star Wars Story), Bill Skarsgård (It franchise), Hiroyuki Sanada (Avengers: Endgame), Shamier Anderson (Race), Rina Sawayama (Turn Up Charlie), and Scott Adkins (Accident Man: Hitman’s Holiday).
John Wick (Keanu Reeves) uncovers a path to defeating The High Table. But before he can earn his freedom, Wick must face...
John Wick (Keanu Reeves) uncovers a path to defeating The High Table. But before he can earn his freedom, Wick must face...
- 5/5/2023
- by Robert Greenberger
- Comicmix.com
Mr. Wick, it will be good to see you again. The explosive sequel that has riddled audiences with bullets all over the world and setting a franchise record with over $400 million earned at the global box office has announced a date for release on digital and Blu-ray. Blu-ray.com reports that the action juggernaut, John Wick: Chapter 4, will be available on digital on May 23, then will be available to own on June 13 on Blu-ray and 4k. In addition, there are a number of retailers who will be simultaneously making steelbook editions available on the same date.
The technical specs will include
Dolby Vision/Hdr Presentation Of The Film Dolby Atmos Audio Track. English Descriptive Audio, French 5.1 Dolby Audio, Spanish 5.1 Dolby Audio Additional Blu-ray audio options: English Dolby Atmos, English Descriptive Audio, Spanish 5.1 Dolby Audio, French 5.1 Dolby Audio Optional English, Spanish, French, and English Sdh subtitles for the main feature
Special...
The technical specs will include
Dolby Vision/Hdr Presentation Of The Film Dolby Atmos Audio Track. English Descriptive Audio, French 5.1 Dolby Audio, Spanish 5.1 Dolby Audio Additional Blu-ray audio options: English Dolby Atmos, English Descriptive Audio, Spanish 5.1 Dolby Audio, French 5.1 Dolby Audio Optional English, Spanish, French, and English Sdh subtitles for the main feature
Special...
- 5/3/2023
- by EJ Tangonan
- JoBlo.com
One of the most time-honored genre setups in history, the haunted house comes about through a nearly-incalculable number of entries that offer up everything, from the glossy mainstream work to the barest indie productions. A mainstay in American and European productions, Asia had tackled the genre with random success with the wild Japanese classic “Hausu” to the traditional Taiwanese effort “The Heirloom,” proving that the genre had staying power around the world. Already tackled before in “The House in the Alley,” director Le-Van Kiet's new film, a box-office smash in Vietnam upon its initial release, will now stream on Screambox from May 2, 2023.
Start screaming now with Screambox on iOS, Android, Prime Video, Roku, YouTube TV, Samsung, Comcast, Cox, and Screambox.com.
Moving out to the countryside, Thanh (Quang Tuan) and his daughters Linh (Lam Thanh My) and Yen (Mai Cat Vi) arrive at an ancestral house to get back...
Start screaming now with Screambox on iOS, Android, Prime Video, Roku, YouTube TV, Samsung, Comcast, Cox, and Screambox.com.
Moving out to the countryside, Thanh (Quang Tuan) and his daughters Linh (Lam Thanh My) and Yen (Mai Cat Vi) arrive at an ancestral house to get back...
- 4/26/2023
- by Don Anelli
- AsianMoviePulse
Donnie Yen is the premier martial arts showman on Earth. He is the heir to Jackie Chan, who was Bruce Lee's successor, and, like those legends, his fighting style is a fluid amalgam of hand-to-hand combat techniques. Watching Yen ply his craft is like listening to a vintage De La Soul track. His fight scenes are an exhilarating, expertly choreographed blur of disciplines. Yen samples from Tai Chi, karate, Taekwondo, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, aikido, wrestling, judo and so much more. And when you spot a reference to a patented punch, kick, or feint from another film or a notable fighter, you get every bit as giddy as the first time you heard the Beastie Boys blend John Williams' "Jaws" theme with Bernard Herrmann's legendary "Psycho" cue in the song, "Egg Man," on their "Paul's Boutique" album.
At the age of 59, Yen shows no signs of slowing down, nor has...
At the age of 59, Yen shows no signs of slowing down, nor has...
- 4/18/2023
- by Jeremy Smith
- Slash Film
The Film
The title of this film is confusing. I first saw it on a Hong Kong Legends DVD as In the Line of Duty. Hkl had released the first film in the series, Yes Madam, as Police Assassins, then skipped directly to this fourth entry. To be fair to them, it never made much sense to pretend that they exist as part of a series, despite the onscreen title for this one—Royal Madam IV: The Witness—again combining elements of the titles of the first two films.
However the title is styled, this one picks up with Cynthia Khan’s Inspector Yeung, who was introduced in the previous film, and would carry over into several more tenuously linked sequels. To begin with we find Yeung in Seattle, helping US Police. There, she and Luk Wan-ting, an immigrant worker moving boxes for a gang of drug smugglers, get caught...
The title of this film is confusing. I first saw it on a Hong Kong Legends DVD as In the Line of Duty. Hkl had released the first film in the series, Yes Madam, as Police Assassins, then skipped directly to this fourth entry. To be fair to them, it never made much sense to pretend that they exist as part of a series, despite the onscreen title for this one—Royal Madam IV: The Witness—again combining elements of the titles of the first two films.
However the title is styled, this one picks up with Cynthia Khan’s Inspector Yeung, who was introduced in the previous film, and would carry over into several more tenuously linked sequels. To begin with we find Yeung in Seattle, helping US Police. There, she and Luk Wan-ting, an immigrant worker moving boxes for a gang of drug smugglers, get caught...
- 4/17/2023
- by Sam Inglis
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
This post contains spoilers for "John Wick: Chapter 4."
The label "direct-to-video" used to be a death knell for filmmakers and movie fans alike. In the early days of home video, the term typically referred to features that weren't good enough to get theatrical distribution, causing studios to subsequently dump them onto the shelves of Blockbusters and Hollywood Videos, where — via gaudy box art, ridiculous taglines and/or highlighting the name of a slumming movie star or a legit celebrity (who would likely only have a cameo role) — they would try to entice naïve renters to check it out.
It can be exceedingly difficult for a subgenre to change a poor reputation, but everything started to change once theatrical distribution was no longer the only game in Hollywood as video, cable, and streaming services became more ubiquitous. One of the people who has been dragging the name of direct-to-video B-movies out...
The label "direct-to-video" used to be a death knell for filmmakers and movie fans alike. In the early days of home video, the term typically referred to features that weren't good enough to get theatrical distribution, causing studios to subsequently dump them onto the shelves of Blockbusters and Hollywood Videos, where — via gaudy box art, ridiculous taglines and/or highlighting the name of a slumming movie star or a legit celebrity (who would likely only have a cameo role) — they would try to entice naïve renters to check it out.
It can be exceedingly difficult for a subgenre to change a poor reputation, but everything started to change once theatrical distribution was no longer the only game in Hollywood as video, cable, and streaming services became more ubiquitous. One of the people who has been dragging the name of direct-to-video B-movies out...
- 3/25/2023
- by Bill Bria
- Slash Film
With his presence in John Wick: Chapter 4, Donnie Yen is finally getting the English-language, international showcase he’s always deserved. Yen is a huge star in his motherland of China and is about to become a very bright draw for international audiences, finding himself new fans every time he’s seen in an American film. With this new one, he should no longer be “oh I know that guy from somewhere” and be quite well known as the badass that he is. To you get to know his work, here are ten of the best Donnie Yen movies (in no particular order):
Dragon (aka Wu Xia) (2011)
A big part of Yen’s career has been filled with period pieces in which martial arts have an important place (the Wuxia genre). Dragon is no different. Here, Yen plays a family man who is hiding a dark past, when this past catches up with him,...
Dragon (aka Wu Xia) (2011)
A big part of Yen’s career has been filled with period pieces in which martial arts have an important place (the Wuxia genre). Dragon is no different. Here, Yen plays a family man who is hiding a dark past, when this past catches up with him,...
- 3/25/2023
- by Emilie Black
- JoBlo.com
This post contains spoilers for "John Wick: Chapter 4."
In the world of John Wick, you simply never know which anonymous face in the crowd is hellbent on trying to kill you or what unexpected ally might suddenly arrive to help you out of a jam. The line between hunted and hunter has never been thinner than it is in "John Wick: Chapter 4." As the reluctant assassin's revenge tour reaches its crescendo, it becomes painfully clear to both Keanu Reeves' Wick and the audience that actions have consequences that ripple out far beyond our hero's grief-stricken shortsightedness. The greatest trick that the fourth film pulls comes from externalizing this idea through the introduction of a new character: Donnie Yen's Caine.
Caine isn't too far afield from the typical secondary villain established throughout the "John Wick" franchise. The first "Wick" sequel had the likes of Adrianne Palicki's Ms. Perkins...
In the world of John Wick, you simply never know which anonymous face in the crowd is hellbent on trying to kill you or what unexpected ally might suddenly arrive to help you out of a jam. The line between hunted and hunter has never been thinner than it is in "John Wick: Chapter 4." As the reluctant assassin's revenge tour reaches its crescendo, it becomes painfully clear to both Keanu Reeves' Wick and the audience that actions have consequences that ripple out far beyond our hero's grief-stricken shortsightedness. The greatest trick that the fourth film pulls comes from externalizing this idea through the introduction of a new character: Donnie Yen's Caine.
Caine isn't too far afield from the typical secondary villain established throughout the "John Wick" franchise. The first "Wick" sequel had the likes of Adrianne Palicki's Ms. Perkins...
- 3/25/2023
- by Jeremy Mathai
- Slash Film
This post contains major spoilers for "John Wick: Chapter 4."
"John Wick: Chapter 4" might just be the wildest and highest-octane film in the entire "John Wick" series, and with good reason. The fourth entry holds the honor of (supposedly) being the last in the saga. That means it not only has to supply all of the action that audiences have come to expect, it also has to tie up the character arc of John Wick himself. Amongst all the chaos and carnage, there needs to be an emotional center and a reminder of the reason why Mr. Wick is killing all of these people in the first place. That's why that scene in the church between John and Caine is so important, as screenwriters Shay Hatten and Michael Finch explain in an exclusive interview with /Film's Vanessa Armstrong.
Caine, played by martial arts legend Donnie Yen, is a vital...
"John Wick: Chapter 4" might just be the wildest and highest-octane film in the entire "John Wick" series, and with good reason. The fourth entry holds the honor of (supposedly) being the last in the saga. That means it not only has to supply all of the action that audiences have come to expect, it also has to tie up the character arc of John Wick himself. Amongst all the chaos and carnage, there needs to be an emotional center and a reminder of the reason why Mr. Wick is killing all of these people in the first place. That's why that scene in the church between John and Caine is so important, as screenwriters Shay Hatten and Michael Finch explain in an exclusive interview with /Film's Vanessa Armstrong.
Caine, played by martial arts legend Donnie Yen, is a vital...
- 3/24/2023
- by Andrew Housman
- Slash Film
There is not a more fearless action star on the planet than Tony Jaa. Ever since making his bone-bruising debut in the relentlessly entertaining "Ong-Bak: Muay Thai Warrior," Jaa's presence in a movie means you're in for full-tilt martial arts combat that's as punishing to film as it is exhilarating to watch.
Jaa earned the most valued seal of approval in the action filmmaking community when Jackie Chan called him "the most well-rounded of all action stars." Alas, Jaa was unable to realize the dream of acting alongside his hero in "Rush Hour 3" (which is for the best given the ghastly quality of the film), but the indestructible Thai star continues to press ever forward. His star has dimmed in recent years (e.g. he took supporting roles in Paul W.S. Anderson's "Monster Hunter" and the sci-fi Dtv effort "Jiu Jitsu"), but when you cast Tony Jaa, you...
Jaa earned the most valued seal of approval in the action filmmaking community when Jackie Chan called him "the most well-rounded of all action stars." Alas, Jaa was unable to realize the dream of acting alongside his hero in "Rush Hour 3" (which is for the best given the ghastly quality of the film), but the indestructible Thai star continues to press ever forward. His star has dimmed in recent years (e.g. he took supporting roles in Paul W.S. Anderson's "Monster Hunter" and the sci-fi Dtv effort "Jiu Jitsu"), but when you cast Tony Jaa, you...
- 3/24/2023
- by Jeremy Smith
- Slash Film
The day has finally come – John Wick: Chapter 4 has hit theaters with a vengeance and is already breaking franchise records. It’s pretty amazing that the first film came close to being dumped as a limited release/VOD movie, only for it to blow the roof off of Fantastic Fest and become a modest sleeper hit. Its trajectory is unique because each subsequent film made more money than the last. Usually, sequels play to diminishing returns, but for this franchise, it’s been anything but.
Our own JimmyO raved about John Wick: Chapter 4, even comparing it to Mad Max: Fury Road. I caught the film myself at a press screening a few weeks ago and was pretty impressed. While I’m not sure I would put it up with the greatest action films of all time, it’s certainly one of the best recent action movies and seems...
Our own JimmyO raved about John Wick: Chapter 4, even comparing it to Mad Max: Fury Road. I caught the film myself at a press screening a few weeks ago and was pretty impressed. While I’m not sure I would put it up with the greatest action films of all time, it’s certainly one of the best recent action movies and seems...
- 3/24/2023
- by Chris Bumbray
- JoBlo.com
Donnie Yen just recently got his first truly substantial role in an American production where he and Keanu Reeves tear up baddies and each other in the freshly released John Wick: Chapter 4. Yen plays an assassin so skilled that even his blindness doesn’t hinder him. That movie is a love letter to Hong Kong action cinema and features a cute reference to a sub-genre of martial arts films, Wuxia. Yen starred in these Wuxia films that often blend fantasy and reality, and his newest non-John Wick film is a return to the genre. Sakra is a period piece action drama fantasy that will have Yen not only star but he steps behind the camera on this one. Blu-ray.com has just dropped a trailer for the U.S. release.
The official synopsis reads,
Based on the classic wuxia novel Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils by Louis Cha (known worldwide by...
The official synopsis reads,
Based on the classic wuxia novel Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils by Louis Cha (known worldwide by...
- 3/24/2023
- by EJ Tangonan
- JoBlo.com
"I am not a hero... I'm just an ordinary person who sticks to the right path." Well Go USA has revealed an official US trailer for an action thriller titled Sakra, a wuxia martial arts film made by Donnie Yen - who directs and stars in this. It already opened in China & Hong Kong back in January, but they've waited until the John Wick: Chapter 4 release to start promoting this - since Jw also stars legendary Donnie Yen in a major role. When a respected martial artist is accused of killing, he goes around in search of answers about his own mysterious origin story and the unknown enemies working to destroy him. Inspired by the classic wuxia novel Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils by Louis Cha (known worldwide by his pen name Jin Yong), Sakra stars Yen as Qiao Feng, the respected leader of a roving band of martial artists. Inspired by...
- 3/24/2023
- by Alex Billington
- firstshowing.net
One word best describes the John Wick franchise: relentless. Chapter 4 is no different with its endlessly thrilling fight scenes, so beautifully choreographed and shot that you forget to breathe at times. Keanu Reeves as Wick is a one-man killing machine with more lives than the luckiest cat in the world. The 58-year-old actor either has boundless youthful energy or crashed in exhaustion on set. John Wick is much like a video game character that keeps getting up and the human version requires peak physical fitness of any actor.
Hence, for reasons of sheer tenacity, stylish production values and action overload, there is still much to be admired by fans, even with a padded run-time of two hours and 49 minutes. Perhaps, the determination to see Wick gain his freedom – or not – from The High Table keeps the momentum spinning, and fuels the race to reach the climax at Paris’s at the Sacré-Coeur Basilica.
Hence, for reasons of sheer tenacity, stylish production values and action overload, there is still much to be admired by fans, even with a padded run-time of two hours and 49 minutes. Perhaps, the determination to see Wick gain his freedom – or not – from The High Table keeps the momentum spinning, and fuels the race to reach the climax at Paris’s at the Sacré-Coeur Basilica.
- 3/24/2023
- by Lisa Giles-Keddie
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
To dub John Wick: Chapter 4 one of the weaker sequels in franchise canon says more about the bulletproof exterior of Chapter 2 and Parabellum. Director Chad Stahelski abides by the country-hopping, Gun-Fu trademarks of Mr. Wick’s odyssey thus far, delivering everything longtime fans desire. Keanu Reeves headshots his way through nightlife bodyguards, action superstars camouflaged under prosthetics, and hired assassins with all the grace of a ballerina gliding across venue stages. Except, this time there’s something different — you can feel the runtime. An almost three-hour Grecian epic turned into a blistering action spectacle stretches thin as the third act culminates, a first for any John Wick movie.
Even still, John Wick: Chapter 4 keeps its foot on the gas, and the tank ain’t empty yet. It just happens to be hitched to one of the greatest American action franchises.
Reeves doesn’t skip a beat as John Wick, picking...
Even still, John Wick: Chapter 4 keeps its foot on the gas, and the tank ain’t empty yet. It just happens to be hitched to one of the greatest American action franchises.
Reeves doesn’t skip a beat as John Wick, picking...
- 3/24/2023
- by Matt Donato
- bloody-disgusting.com
This article contains major John Wick: Chapter 4 spoilers. Be warned!
It’s probably not what you expect when going into a movie with “Chapter 4” in the title. Despite a three-hour running time, and plenty of rumblings in the press about the next John Wick flick possibly being the last one, only a precious few actually anticipated John Wick would die by the movie’s end.
And yet—and yet, dear reader—that certainly appears to be the case when the credits roll in John Wick: Chapter 4. After receiving a seemingly mortal wound from his old friend turned enemy, the blind super assassin, Caine (a magnificent Donnie Yen), Keanu Reeves’ ultimate action hero asks his father figure—who also shot him that one time—Winston (Ian McShane) to “take me home.” Winston agrees, and Jonathan walks quietly, triumphantly, into the rising sun above La Basilique du Sacré-Cœur. He’s a destitute figure in the moment,...
It’s probably not what you expect when going into a movie with “Chapter 4” in the title. Despite a three-hour running time, and plenty of rumblings in the press about the next John Wick flick possibly being the last one, only a precious few actually anticipated John Wick would die by the movie’s end.
And yet—and yet, dear reader—that certainly appears to be the case when the credits roll in John Wick: Chapter 4. After receiving a seemingly mortal wound from his old friend turned enemy, the blind super assassin, Caine (a magnificent Donnie Yen), Keanu Reeves’ ultimate action hero asks his father figure—who also shot him that one time—Winston (Ian McShane) to “take me home.” Winston agrees, and Jonathan walks quietly, triumphantly, into the rising sun above La Basilique du Sacré-Cœur. He’s a destitute figure in the moment,...
- 3/24/2023
- by David Crow
- Den of Geek
The similarities between John Wick and Jesus Christ likely start and finish with silky locks and an uncanny ability to cheat death. That’s never stopped filmmaker Chad Stahelski from shovelling religious imagery into this franchise, though. It’s always as if the Rapture itself is right around the corner. Back, alive, after an unfortunate tumble off a New York City rooftop at the end of 2019’s Chapter 3, Keanu Reeves’s indomitable assassin now stalks the aisles of saintly cathedrals. He crosses pistols with a blood brother named Caine (Donnie Yen), whose name echoes the biblical kinsman tarred by murder. And, most arrestingly, he opens the film hurling several ferocious punches, which hit their target with the sonorous quality of church bells summoning the faithful.
Even at its nearly three-hour runtime, John Wick: Chapter 4 commits so nobly to its self-seriousness that it almost borders into camp. And yet, the...
Even at its nearly three-hour runtime, John Wick: Chapter 4 commits so nobly to its self-seriousness that it almost borders into camp. And yet, the...
- 3/24/2023
- by Clarisse Loughrey
- The Independent - Film
This article contains John Wick: Chapter 4 spoilers. The spoiler-free review is here.
They actually killed John Wick. The Baba Yaga. The Boogeyman. Death Made Flesh has now at last himself crossed over. Apparently. That’s certainly what we’re led to believe before the ending credits of Chad Stahelski‘s John Wick: Chapter 4 roll, with Keanu Reeves’ preternaturally bespoke, god tier assassin taking a bullet somewhere in the guts while dueling old frenemy Caine (Donnie Yen) for his freedom.
Admittedly, we don’t see someone stand over Wick’s body and confirm there’s no pulse. He just lies down, and then there is a gravestone. Make of that what you will, but for patrons who became misty-eyed over the loss of Jardani Jovonovich (he really did have a lot of nicknames!) and then left when the credits rolled, we have good news: While John may have finally been reunited...
They actually killed John Wick. The Baba Yaga. The Boogeyman. Death Made Flesh has now at last himself crossed over. Apparently. That’s certainly what we’re led to believe before the ending credits of Chad Stahelski‘s John Wick: Chapter 4 roll, with Keanu Reeves’ preternaturally bespoke, god tier assassin taking a bullet somewhere in the guts while dueling old frenemy Caine (Donnie Yen) for his freedom.
Admittedly, we don’t see someone stand over Wick’s body and confirm there’s no pulse. He just lies down, and then there is a gravestone. Make of that what you will, but for patrons who became misty-eyed over the loss of Jardani Jovonovich (he really did have a lot of nicknames!) and then left when the credits rolled, we have good news: While John may have finally been reunited...
- 3/23/2023
- by David Crow
- Den of Geek
Creating the fight choreography and stunts for a "John Wick" flick is a pretty massive responsibility. The films hinge on the fierce and frenetic fight scenes: People flock to theaters to see John Wick (Keanu Reeves) fight in both hand-to-hand combat and various kinds of gun-fu with a whole host of baddies. For "John Wick: Chapter 4," the latest and greatest sequel in the franchise, stunt coordinators Stephen Dunlevy and Scott Rogers really had their work cut out for them, creating fight scenes between Reeves and martial arts legends like Donnie Yen and Hiroyuki Sonata. Look, this is a franchise that was created by a stuntman (series creator and director Chad Stahelski), so these stunts have to be immaculate.
In an upcoming exclusive interview with /Film's Vanessa Armstrong, Dunlevy and Rogers shared the stories behind bringing a brutal "ballet of violence" to life onscreen. When you're working with performers as dedicated as Reeves,...
In an upcoming exclusive interview with /Film's Vanessa Armstrong, Dunlevy and Rogers shared the stories behind bringing a brutal "ballet of violence" to life onscreen. When you're working with performers as dedicated as Reeves,...
- 3/23/2023
- by Danielle Ryan
- Slash Film
Actor and martial artist Dannie Yen has big biggest stateside release this weekend when “John Wick: Chapter 4” hits theaters everywhere. But US audiences may not realize just how prolific Yen is in the Chinese film industry. Want to learn more? How about checking out “Sakra,” Yen’s latest wuxia film, which he also directs?
Read More: ‘John Wick: Chapter 4’ Review: Action Cinema At Its Finest, The Franchise Reaches A New High
Based on Louis Cha‘s classic wuxia novel “Demi-Gods And Semi-Devils,” “Sakra” stars Yen as Qiao Feng, the respected leader of a roving band of martial artists.
Continue reading ‘Sakra’ Trailer: Donnie Yen’s New Wuxia Film Hits Theaters On April 14, On Digital On April 18 at The Playlist.
Read More: ‘John Wick: Chapter 4’ Review: Action Cinema At Its Finest, The Franchise Reaches A New High
Based on Louis Cha‘s classic wuxia novel “Demi-Gods And Semi-Devils,” “Sakra” stars Yen as Qiao Feng, the respected leader of a roving band of martial artists.
Continue reading ‘Sakra’ Trailer: Donnie Yen’s New Wuxia Film Hits Theaters On April 14, On Digital On April 18 at The Playlist.
- 3/23/2023
- by Ned Booth
- The Playlist
The similarities between John Wick and Jesus Christ likely start and finish with silky locks and an uncanny ability to cheat death. That’s never stopped filmmaker Chad Stahelski from shovelling religious imagery into this franchise, though. It’s always as if the Rapture itself is right around the corner. Back, alive, after an unfortunate tumble off a New York City rooftop at the end of 2019’s Chapter 3, Keanu Reeves’s indomitable assassin now stalks the aisles of saintly cathedrals. He crosses pistols with a blood brother named Caine (Donnie Yen), whose name echoes the biblical kinsman tarred by murder. And, most arrestingly, he opens the film hurling several ferocious punches, which hit their target with the sonorous quality of church bells summoning the faithful.
Even at its nearly three-hour runtime, John Wick: Chapter 4 commits so nobly to its self-seriousness that it almost borders into camp. And yet, the...
Even at its nearly three-hour runtime, John Wick: Chapter 4 commits so nobly to its self-seriousness that it almost borders into camp. And yet, the...
- 3/23/2023
- by Clarisse Loughrey
- The Independent - Film
I’ve had a sort of Star Trek thing going on with the John Wick franchise: the odd-numbered films have never fully impressed us, while the even-numbered John Wick: Chapter 2 was a dazzling tour de force that elevated the series to a whole new level of action filmmaking. So I’m happy to report that the odd-even rule continues to be in effect. John Wick: Chapter 4 is a frequently astonishing epic that moves the story forward from the relative wheel-spinning of Chapter 3, using its whopping two-hour-and-49-minute runtime to deliver more stunning action, a heavier dose of humor, and even some moments of reflection and character development that may make the pace flag a little but ultimately provide satisfaction.
The film, once again directed by Chad Stahelski and of course starring Keanu Reeves as the title assassin/avenging angel of death, also brings John’s story to a possible conclusion of sorts,...
The film, once again directed by Chad Stahelski and of course starring Keanu Reeves as the title assassin/avenging angel of death, also brings John’s story to a possible conclusion of sorts,...
- 3/23/2023
- by Don Kaye
- Den of Geek
There is a go-for-broke, frenzied aura upon John Wick: Chapter 4. Even for a franchise so heavily steeped in bullets and body count, this outing finds a way to leave all its cards on the table. Seemingly fashioned with a “no bad ideas” ethos, John Wick: Chapter 4 gleefully trades in the kind of maximalist excess that characterized last year’s Babylon. In a similar fashion, not only does Chapter 4 endeavor to be a potentially final John Wick movie, it plays as an attempt at the last action movie ever made.
Following his improbable spill off the Continental rooftop at the close of Chapter 3, Keanu Reeves’ Boogeyman has taken refuge from the High Table––the invisible hand that controls this neon-coated world––in the company of the Bowery King (Laurence Fishburne). In the wake of retribution from the powers that be, the two personae non grata embark on a globetrotting...
Following his improbable spill off the Continental rooftop at the close of Chapter 3, Keanu Reeves’ Boogeyman has taken refuge from the High Table––the invisible hand that controls this neon-coated world––in the company of the Bowery King (Laurence Fishburne). In the wake of retribution from the powers that be, the two personae non grata embark on a globetrotting...
- 3/22/2023
- by Conor O'Donnell
- The Film Stage
Keanu Reeves as John Wick in John Wick: Chapter 4. Photo Credit: Murray Close
I’m guessing that a lot of action blockbuster movies aficionados have been thinking that the multiplexes have been pretty quiet this year so far. I mean the second Avatar swam in just before the end of 2022. As usual, the Winter has seen lots of horror thrillers, plus a couple of superheroes swooped in for the latest installment of their respective franchises. Ah, now there’s another franchise that brings a smile to the “big stunt spectacle” film fans. The fellow at the tentpole’s forefront doesn’t have a “tech suit” or a sculpted rubber and cape ensemble. No sir, though his fighting attire is a simple black suit, filled with a massive arsenal. His skill is his “super-power”, as we turn the cinematic page to John Wick: Chapter 4.
As the film opens the air...
I’m guessing that a lot of action blockbuster movies aficionados have been thinking that the multiplexes have been pretty quiet this year so far. I mean the second Avatar swam in just before the end of 2022. As usual, the Winter has seen lots of horror thrillers, plus a couple of superheroes swooped in for the latest installment of their respective franchises. Ah, now there’s another franchise that brings a smile to the “big stunt spectacle” film fans. The fellow at the tentpole’s forefront doesn’t have a “tech suit” or a sculpted rubber and cape ensemble. No sir, though his fighting attire is a simple black suit, filled with a massive arsenal. His skill is his “super-power”, as we turn the cinematic page to John Wick: Chapter 4.
As the film opens the air...
- 3/21/2023
- by Jim Batts
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
Outside of his "Rogue One" appearance, Hong Kong action star Donnie Yen is best known for leading the "Ip Man" franchise, where he plays an exaggerated version of the titular Wing Chun grandmaster. The movies were big enough to transcend their Hong Kong roots and become popular globally, with bombastic fight scenes that made a point of going beyond standard combat choreography to play up the real-life Ip Man's legacy as a Chinese national hero — causing some controversy in the process.
The series had Yen's Ip Man facing off against everyone from 'Iron' Mike Tyson to British stunt performer extraordinaire Scott Adkins — who played a US Marines Corps gunnery sergeant in "Ip Man 4: The Finale." Now, Yen and Adkins will appear together in the upcoming "John Wick: Chapter 4," which looks set to push the Hong Kong action star even further than the "Ip Man" franchise ever did.
The series had Yen's Ip Man facing off against everyone from 'Iron' Mike Tyson to British stunt performer extraordinaire Scott Adkins — who played a US Marines Corps gunnery sergeant in "Ip Man 4: The Finale." Now, Yen and Adkins will appear together in the upcoming "John Wick: Chapter 4," which looks set to push the Hong Kong action star even further than the "Ip Man" franchise ever did.
- 2/25/2023
- by Joe Roberts
- Slash Film
Sakra, a big-budget martial arts fantasy directed and starring Donnie Yen, is heading for a North American theatrical and digital release.
Rights to the film were acquired by WellGo USA which is a major stateside purveyor of Chinese and other Asian titles.
The company has set dates in April for a theatrical outing, shortly followed by a release to digital platforms, according to an emailed conversation with its president and CEO Doris Pfardrescher. Other details of its release and marketing campaign have yet to be finalized.
The film, a mainland China-Hong co-venture, was released in theaters in several territories in Southeast Asia in late January in time for the Lunar New Year holiday peak season. In China, it did not join the New Year scramble for screens and instead was released straight to streaming.
Yen previously described “Sakra” as the most authentic film he had ever made and came at...
Rights to the film were acquired by WellGo USA which is a major stateside purveyor of Chinese and other Asian titles.
The company has set dates in April for a theatrical outing, shortly followed by a release to digital platforms, according to an emailed conversation with its president and CEO Doris Pfardrescher. Other details of its release and marketing campaign have yet to be finalized.
The film, a mainland China-Hong co-venture, was released in theaters in several territories in Southeast Asia in late January in time for the Lunar New Year holiday peak season. In China, it did not join the New Year scramble for screens and instead was released straight to streaming.
Yen previously described “Sakra” as the most authentic film he had ever made and came at...
- 2/14/2023
- by Patrick Frater
- Variety Film + TV
Since 2008, Donnie Yen has been dispatching all manner of foes in the Ip Man franchise. But his most dangerous encounter may well have been when he faced off against Mike Tyson in the third installment.
Based on the life of Wing Chun grandmaster Ip Man, the franchise stars Yen in the title role and loosely tells Ip Man's story. The first film, which earned its place as one of the great kung fu movies, depicts his early days in Foshan during the Sino-Japanese War, while "Ip Man 2" finds Yen's hero in 1940s Hong Kong where he faces down British police. By the time it came to the third film, Yen, who also appeared in "Rogue One" and Disney's live-action "Mulan" remake needed something a little more formidable to face down. Enter Iron Mike.
"Ip Man 3" is set in the late 1950s, and also stars Danny Chan as esteemed martial artist...
Based on the life of Wing Chun grandmaster Ip Man, the franchise stars Yen in the title role and loosely tells Ip Man's story. The first film, which earned its place as one of the great kung fu movies, depicts his early days in Foshan during the Sino-Japanese War, while "Ip Man 2" finds Yen's hero in 1940s Hong Kong where he faces down British police. By the time it came to the third film, Yen, who also appeared in "Rogue One" and Disney's live-action "Mulan" remake needed something a little more formidable to face down. Enter Iron Mike.
"Ip Man 3" is set in the late 1950s, and also stars Danny Chan as esteemed martial artist...
- 11/16/2022
- by Joe Roberts
- Slash Film
Keanu Reeves as John Wick and Donnie Yen as Caine in John Wick 4. Photo Credit: Murray Close
Check out the brand new trailer for John Wick: Chapter 4.
John Wick (Keanu Reeves) uncovers a path to defeating The High Table. But before he can earn his freedom, Wick must face off against a new enemy with powerful alliances across the globe and forces that turn old friends into foes.
The film stars Keanu Reeves, Donnie Yen, Bill Skarsgård, Laurence Fishburne, Hiroyuki Sanada, Shamier Anderson, Lance Reddick, Rina Sawayama, Scott Adkins, and Ian McShane.
Directed by Chad Stahelski, written by Shay Hatten and Michael Finch and based on characters created by Derek Kolstad, John Wick: Chapter 4 opens in theaters March 24.
It was announced in early November Prime Video will launch The Continental, the highly anticipated special event series based on the blockbuster action franchise John Wick. The prequel is produced by Lionsgate Television,...
Check out the brand new trailer for John Wick: Chapter 4.
John Wick (Keanu Reeves) uncovers a path to defeating The High Table. But before he can earn his freedom, Wick must face off against a new enemy with powerful alliances across the globe and forces that turn old friends into foes.
The film stars Keanu Reeves, Donnie Yen, Bill Skarsgård, Laurence Fishburne, Hiroyuki Sanada, Shamier Anderson, Lance Reddick, Rina Sawayama, Scott Adkins, and Ian McShane.
Directed by Chad Stahelski, written by Shay Hatten and Michael Finch and based on characters created by Derek Kolstad, John Wick: Chapter 4 opens in theaters March 24.
It was announced in early November Prime Video will launch The Continental, the highly anticipated special event series based on the blockbuster action franchise John Wick. The prequel is produced by Lionsgate Television,...
- 11/10/2022
- by Michelle Hannett
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
Peacock and Lionsgate today announced a multi-year deal for The Continental, the highly anticipated three-part special event based on the blockbuster action franchise, John Wick. Premiering exclusively on Peacock in 2023, The Continental will explore the origin story and inner workings of the exclusive Continental Hotel, a centerpiece of the John Wick Universe which serves as a refuge for assassins. Special Event Series will premiere exclusively on Peacock in 2023 alongside the John Wick Movie Trilogy.
The John Wick films have grossed nearly 600 million worldwide to date, with each film outperforming its predecessor, with John Wick: Chapter Four scheduled for theatrical release worldwide in March 2023.
(teaser).
“The John Wick films have become a global phenomenon, are among the most watched titles on Peacock and we are thrilled and honored to partner with Lionsgate to extend this incredible franchise,” said Kelly Campbell, President, Peacock and Direct-to-Consumer. “We understand the value of a global...
The John Wick films have grossed nearly 600 million worldwide to date, with each film outperforming its predecessor, with John Wick: Chapter Four scheduled for theatrical release worldwide in March 2023.
(teaser).
“The John Wick films have become a global phenomenon, are among the most watched titles on Peacock and we are thrilled and honored to partner with Lionsgate to extend this incredible franchise,” said Kelly Campbell, President, Peacock and Direct-to-Consumer. “We understand the value of a global...
- 8/15/2022
- by Michelle Hannett
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
Yes, there are 10 now, with the latest one introducing the Young Ip Man, in a desperate effort to continue the franchise. Despite its evident downward spiral, though, the Ip Man series has presented a number of martial arts masterpieces through the years, which highlighted the prowess of individuals like Donnie Yen, Sammo Hung, Wilson Yip and Yuen Woo Ping among others. Also of interest was the path Wong Kar Wai and Herman Yau took the life of Bruce Lee’s teacher, resulting in more artistic entries, while the inclusion of individuals like Mike Tyson, can only be perceived as a treat.
Here is a look of all the entries in the series, in chronological order.
1. Ip Man (2008) by Wilson Yip
The story takes place in Foshan, a city in southeast China that was considered a centre of martial arts, even including a street completely dedicated to it, where teachers are...
Here is a look of all the entries in the series, in chronological order.
1. Ip Man (2008) by Wilson Yip
The story takes place in Foshan, a city in southeast China that was considered a centre of martial arts, even including a street completely dedicated to it, where teachers are...
- 6/27/2022
- by Panos Kotzathanasis
- AsianMoviePulse
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