cityonfire.com | Asian Film Reviews | Movie News

"Call Me King" Promotional Poster

In the international world of gun running… loyalty, honor and discretion are valuable commodities, but nothing is more priceless than the bond of family.

Dark Energy and Shadow Motion Pictures presents Call Me King, an upcoming action movie written and directed by R.L. Scott (who also handled the fight choreography). Judging from the new Red Band trailer, there seems to be enough gunplay and gritty hand-to-hand combat to orbit Arnold Schwarzenegger.

Call Me King stars Bai Ling (The Crow), Amin Joseph (The Expendables) Chris Mulkey (Boardwalk Empire), Alimi Ballard (Numbers), Lester Speight (Transformers), Robert Miano (Donnie Brasco), Bill Cobbs (Oz: The great and Powerful), Del Zamora (True Blood), Gabrielle Dennis (The Game) and Monyque Thompson Scott (Lie to Me).

Call Me King is scheduled to be released early 2014. Until then, be sure and check out the Red Band trailer. There’s a lot of talk, but towards the second half of the trailer, there’s some serious death matches goin’ on.

"Hercules 3D" Concept Poster

It’s a story told often in Hollywood: two rival movie studios are making big-budget movies about the exact same thing. From Armageddon vs. Deep Impact to Mirror, Mirror vs. Snow White & the Huntsman, we’ve seen it happen before and it’s happening again.

Only this time, one of Cityonfire.com’s favorite action stars – Scott Adkins (Undisputed III, Universal Soldier: Day of Reckoning) – is going up against The Rock!

White hot movie star Dwayne Johnson will portray the mythic figure Hercules for a Summer 2014 blockbuster titled, well, Hercules. This version of the character arrives from Rush Hour director Brett Ratner and is supposedly more of a gritty, less fantasy-based take on the character.

Meanwhile, Millennium Entertainment has Die Hard 2 and Cliffhanger helmer Renny Harlin shooting Hercules 3D in Bulgaria on a budget of $70 million. In that film, the Greek god will be played by Twilight actor Kellan Lutz. Reportedly, Harlin’s version won’t go too over-the-top either and will instead aim for a tone similar to Ridley Scott’s Gladiator.

Where does Scott Adkins fit into all this? The martial artist/actor was recently cast in a major role in Hercules 3D as King Amphitryon. The role should allow Adkins to stretch his acting chops, since he’s husband to the woman who is seduced by Zeus and later gives birth to Hercules. Either way, it will be a great opportunity for fans to see Scott Adkins on the big screen again.

"The Night Comes For Us" Promotional Poster

In addition to The Raid 2: Berandal, British filmmaker Gareth Evans and his Indonesian-based Merantau Films production company has another action project in the works called The Night Comes For Us.

Currently in script-development, not much is known about The Night Comes For Us, other than it will be “a neo-noir hitman thriller.” Timo Tjahjanto (of the “Mo Brothers” directing duo) is directing, while Evans is co-writing the story. Rising action star Joe Taslim (The Raid, Dead Mine and Fast & Furious 6) has landed the lead role of the hitman.

Tjahjanto – whose other directing credits include segments from The ABCs of Death, V/H/S/2 and the upcoming Killers – has released an illustrated promotional poster for the film. The Night Comes For Us is scheduled to start production in the fall. Thanks to Twitch for breaking the story.

Update: Exciting news for those anticipating Joe Taslim’s next big movie. North American distribution rights for the film were recently purchased by Sony Pictures Classic and it was announced that The Raid director Gareth Evans will serve as action director on the project as soon as The Raid 2 wraps shooting.

"Timecop" Japanese Theatrical Poster

THR reports that Universal is developing a remake of 1994′s Timecop. Directed by Peter Hyams (End of Days) and starring Jean-Claude Van Damme, the original Timecop took place in the near future where special officers traveled through time to arrest those who used “time travel” to commit crimes.

According to THR, the studio is approaching the new Timecop as a reboot and a re-imagining of the concept and is being handed to writers. As with Phillip Noyce’s (Salt) proposed Bloodsport remake, Van Damme will not be involved with the Timecop reboot.

Based off the Dark Horse comic book of the same name, Timecop was one of Van Damme’s most successful films, both financially and critically. The film even spawned a short-lived 1997 TV series and the 2003 direct-to-DVD sequel Timecop 2: The Berlin Decision, which starred Jason Scott Lee (Dragon: The Bruce Lee Story).

If this news of a Van Damme-less Timecop gets you down, keep your head up. The “Muscles from Brussels” has a lot of projects coming out including Swelter, Welcome to the Jungle, Soldiers and a reunion with Timecop director Peter Hyams, titled Enemies Closer. As always, we’ll keep you updated.

"Man of Tai Chi" Poster

THE MOVIE: Keanu Reeves is directing and starring in Man of Tai Chi, an action-packed homage to classic kung fu films. Also starring is Hong Kong singer-actress Karen Mok and Chen Hu (aka Tiger Chen). Yuen Woo-ping will be handling the choreography. In Man of Tai Chi, Chen Hu stars as a young martial artist whose fighting skills brings him to a realm of vast opportunities, and painful choices. Reeves will be playing the villain.

Updates: Dark Horizons notes that Keanu’s close to getting funding for the project, and that Tiger Chen (aka Chen Hu), one of the choreographers on The Matrix, would have a starring role. | Screen Daily reports that Man of Tai Chi now has financial backing, and can beging shooting. THR reports that Uni will handle funding, along with Village Roadshow Asia, Wanda Media and China Film Group.

Via crienglish, the New Express Daily reports that Man of Tai Chi began shooting in Beijing. | Reeleast.com reports that Beach Spike’s Helene Leclerc, a Hong Kong-based Eurasian model and actress, has won a part in Man of Tai Chi. | You won’t want to miss this behind the scenes look at the film, which shows how Keanu Reeves is using automated camera dollys to capture the martial arts sequences.

Filmofilia.com reports that The Raid’s Iko Uwais has joined the cast of of Man of Tai Chi. Uwais will supposedly be going toe-to-toe with Tiger Chen during the film’s climax. | Check out a new poster for this highly anticipated martial arts film. Also, Collider has a pack of new images from the film.

Introducing the first trailer for Man of Tai Chi.

BREAKING NEWS: Deadline reports that The Weinstein Company has secured the North American distribution rights to the film. Here’s a new poster as well.

"Favela" Poster Art

Director Ernie Barbarash, at the moment best known for his two recent collaborations with Jean-Claude Van Damme (Assassination Games and Six Bullets), has announced an ambitious new project. The ‘Falcon’ series will be a string of action films that follows a character named John ‘Falcon’ Chapman, a weapon of the state who is fueled by guilt and regret.

None other than Michael Jai White (Blood and Bone, Spawn) is set to play this ass-kicker with a dark past. In the first installment of the series, titled Favela, Chapman is on a mission of revenge.

The anti-hero travels to Brazil to find his sister’s killer and along the way uncovers an underworld of vice and corruption, presided over by the Japanese mafia of all people.

The production company behind the Falcon series hopes to make 1-2 movies a year following the character, which seems like a tall order, but at least they have a talented leading man in Michael Jai White. It’s worth noting that White has called Falcon the kind of role he’s been waiting his whole life to tackle. On the action front, White will be ably assisted by Larnell Stovall, a fight choreographer who boasts arguably the most impressive resume in the genre thanks to movies like Universal Soldier: Day of Reckoning and Undisputed 3.

Stay tuned to Cityonfire.com for more news on Favela and the Falcon series. Here are a couple of pics from the movie, which is currently filming: 1 | 2. Thanks to Film Combat Syndicate for the details.

Update: Check out the first official poster for the film.

"Man of Steel" Jor-El Character Poster

THE MOVIE: Clark Kent/Kal-El (Henry Cavill) is a young journalist who feels alienated by powers beyond his imagination. Transported years ago to Earth from Krypton, Clark struggles with the question ‘Why am I here?’. Shaped by the values of his adoptive parents Martha (Diane Lane) and Jonathan Kent (Kevin Costner), Clark discovers having extraordinary abilities means making difficult decisions. Clark must become a Man of Steel, to protect the people he loves and shine as the world’s beacon of hope… Superman. - Imdb.com

Updates: WB’s already scouting for a sequel. | CBM has a pic of Cavill being a real super role model. | Shannon is currently living in Bizarro World, as he compared Snyder to Scorsese. | Cinema Blend has a close look at the costumes (Superman, Jor-El and Lara Lor-Van).

AICN has the word from Variety that Hans Zimmer (The Dark Knight Rises, Inception) will score the film. | Man of Steel will still be screened in IMAX but the movie is not being converted to 3D. Even though Zack Synder didn’t shoot Man of Steel in IMAX, we’re still guessing it’ll be a sight to behold in the format. | Here’s the new teaser poster, fresh out of Comic-Con.

The teaser trailer screening in front of The Dark Knight Rises this weekend is now online. | Supes is bound and chained for this new teaser poster. | Thanks to AICN. The 2nd full length trailer has arrived. | Rope of Silicon reports that Man of Steel will be PG-13. Not that anyone was expecting a Superman movie to be Rated R or something, but let’s be thankful it isn’t plain old PG. | Check out the latest Total Film magazine cover, which gives use a new photo of Superman and Lois Lane (Amy Adams). Watch the new TV spot. | Check out a new viral video featuring General Zod.

A new trailer is online, which seems to offer a sample of Hans Zimmer’s score as well. | Check out a new fan made poster. Plus, check out more magazine covers, featuring new photos, at Collider. | Here’s a new theatrical poster and banner poster for the film. Listen to a preview clip of Hans Zimmer’s score here, as well as a song in its entirety here. | The Playlist has a new TV spot. Also, check out the three new posters 1 | 2 | 3 .

BREAKING NEWS: Enoy latest trailer as well as a series of new posters, including this one of Russell Crowe as Jor-El.

"The Wolverine" Theatrical Poster

THE MOVIE: James Mangold (Cop Land, 3:10 to Yuma remake) directs Hugh Jackman in a new solo Wolverine film that presumably ignores the continuity mess of X-Men Origins: Wolverine. This time a Wolverine travels to Japan, training under a samurai and falling in love with some local beauties in the process. In theaters on July 26th, 2013.

Updates: Dark Horizons reports that Jackman and Mangold are looking into a possible R-rated version | In an interview via CBM, Mangold says the film will be heavily influenced by Japanese culture and even have fight scenes modeled after Japanese martial arts.

Casting on the movie continues and a host of Japanese talent has been added. Look for Hiroyuki Sanada (Royal Warriors), Hal Yamanouchi (Push), and two female newcomers – Tao Okamoto and Rila Fukushima – to round out the cast. | Will Yun Lee (TV’s Hawaii Five-O) will play the Silver Samurai.

It’s not much but here’s the first on-set photo of Hugh Jackman, courtesy of Cinema Blend. | The Coventry Telegraph says Hugh Jackman confirms The Wolverine is standalone film, not a sequel and won’t be ‘overloaded’ with mutants. | Collider has the first official image of Hugh Jackman in The Wolverine. | Collider has new set photos. | Collider has the first photo of Svetlana Khodchenkova as Viper. | The latest rumor is that Famke Janssen will have a cameo in The Wolverine as her X-Men character Jean Grey/the Phoenix.

Director James Mangold recently clarified that The Wolverine takes place a long time after X-Men: The Last Stand, at a point when most of the X-Men are gone or disbanded. | There’s a new pic of Hugh Jackman at the link as well. | Take a peak at the new teaser poster, as well as some new set photos, courtesy of Collider. | Here are some new set photos.

A new international teaser poster has been released. To see the animated version, head over Cinema Blend. | According to Collider, Hugh Jackman reveals when The Wolverine takes place and mentions an X-Men cameo. | AICN has some choice new quotes from director James Mangold. The filmmaker says one of his main inspirations for the film was the classic Clint Eastwood Western The Outlaw Josey Wales, and that this movie will put a renewed focus on Wolverine’s immortality and berserker rage.

The first photo from the film is in the latest issue of Entertainment Weekly. | Enjoy some new images, courtesy of Collider. | Check out this newly released still of Jackman. | Head over to Collider to check out a pack of set images from the film. | Check out the new poster! And beyond Hollywood has 8 new images from the film, including our first look at Svetlana Khodchenkova as the villainous Viper. | The full-length trailer is here, courtesy of Apple Quicktime. New poster has been released. | Check out a pack of new photos from Collider. | Watch the Japanese trailer!

Theater chain AMC has released a low-res shot of Wolverine holding off the Silver Samurai, who appears completely computer-generated in this shot but will be played by Will Yun Lee (Red Dawn remake) in the film. Also check out The Wolverine CinemaCon trailer! Thanks to M.M.A.C.for the news. | Check out the new Silver Samurai teaser poster, which is done with the Japanese paint-style treatment.

Collider has a new photo of Jackman vs. Hiroyuki Sanada. If you’re not familiar with Sanada (aka Henry Sanada), he’s had one heck of a martial arts career in Japan and Hong Kong, ranging from Legend of the Eight Samurai with Sonny Chiba to Hong Kong’s Royal Warriors with Michelle Yeoh. His Hollywood work includes Rush Hour 3, The last Samurai, Sunshine, Speed Racer, Lost and the upcoming 47 Ronin.

BREAKING NEWS: The latest trailer has arrived and it’s a hot one! Also, check out the latest Japanese paint-style character posters at impawards.com.

"Badges of Fury" Chinese Theatrical Poster

Enlight Media held a press conference on April 22 to announce that martial arts superstar Jet Li will reteam with up-and-coming actor Wen Zhang on a new film. The duo previously starred together in the special FX-infused, 2011 kung fu fantasy The Sorcerer and the White Snake.

Their next movie is known only as Bu Er Shen Tan (English: The One Detective) with no details on the plot or genre. It’s one of seven movies that Enlight Media is planning to shoot this year, in another clear indication that the Chinese film industry is ramping up to compete with Hollywood.

In the meantime, you can always order The Sorcerer and the White Snake on Blu-ray from our friends at DDDHouse.

Update: Jet Li’s latest collaboration with fellow actor Wen Zhang is a cop thriller titled The One Detective.

The project has been shrouded in secrecy. All we really know of the plot is that it follows Jet Li and Wen Zhang as two police officers investigating a series of murders. However, today much of the female cast was revealed: actresses Liu Yan, Liu Shishi, and Michelle Chen will all have a role in the film.

The film is no longer titled The One Detective but Badges of Fury. Before you think ‘badges? We don’t need no stinkin’ badges!’, realize that the film also now co-stars martial artists extraordinaire Collin Chou (The Matrix Reloaded, Flashpoint) and Wu Jing (Sha Po Lang AKA Killzone).

Twitch reports the film will have a promo at the European Film Market. | Check out an advance promotional poster for the film. Thanks to the tireless heroes at Martial Arts Action Cinema for the story. | It’s not much here’s the first image of Jet Li from the film. Thanks to M.M.A.C.

M.M.A.C. has a collage of sorts for the film, featuring one new image of Jet Li as well as what looks like a low-resolution version of an early promotional poster. Thanks, guys!

Here’s a legitimate version of the trailer. Martial Arts Movie Junkie has some high-quality images as well. No more bootleg quality! Looks like the movie is actually something of an action/comedy. | Check out the unusual new poster, which announces the film’s Chinese release date of June 28th, 2013, but seems to go out of its way to exclude Jet Li.

BREAKING NEWS: Variety reports that Well Go USA acquired North American rights to the film at Cannes, so we can look forward to a quality Blu-ray/DVD/On Demand release of the film in the future. Also, don’t miss the second trailer for the film.

"Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance" Korean Theatrical Poster

Deadline reports that a remake for Park Chan-wook’s 2002 thriller Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance (read our reviews) is being planned. There is no set director, but Brian Tucker (Broken City) is on board as writer.

Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance involves a recently laid off factory worker who kidnaps his former boss’ daughter, hoping to use the ransom money to pay for his sister’s kidney transplant. Of course, things don’t exactly go as planned.

News of this remake should come as no surprise. After all, Park Chan-wook’s other two films (all three titles make up his “Vengeance Trilogy”) are currently brewing. Spike Lee is wrapping up his remake of Old Boy, and last year, there was some news regarding a remake of Lady Vengeance, starring Charlize Theron.

As always, we’ll be sure to keep you in the loop.

"Tom Yum Goong 2" Promotional Poster

Twitch reports that Tom Yum Goong 2 will reunite the entire Tom Yum Goong/Ong Bak team with Jaa in the lead, Pinkaew directing, Rittikrai handling fight choreography and Chocolate star Jeeja Yanin also handed a significant role – the first time Jaa has ever shared the stage with another marquee fighter. Read the full story here.

Updates: There are also plans to shoot the movie in 3D. Rising martial artist Marrese Crump also has a role. At the link are some shots of the Tom Yum Goong 2 opening ceremony. | Twitch Film has the word from a Thai newspaper that Tom Yum Goong 2 is only about 40% finished after eight months of principal photography, and that Tony Jaa will take a break from filming in May to marry his longtime girlfriend. Twitch speculates that the Tom Yum Goong 2 is now likely over-budget and won’t see release until mid 2013.

Not much new but Asian Movie Pulse makes notice of a fan petition you can sign to try and grant the film a worldwide release. Also, this guy actually managed to see some footage from the film at Cannes, and it sounds appropriately big-budget and over the top.

Twitch Film relays news that the RZA, fresh off The Man With the Iron Fists, has a ‘featured’ role in Tom Yum Goong 2. In addition, the film finally has a release date: expect the movie in Thai theaters this May 2013. | Twitch is running an article that states Tom Yum Goong 2 will be the first Tony Jaa movie to make extensive use of CGI and wirework, supposedly necessitated because of the film’s 3D nature. Expect the first trailer for the movie in Spring 2013.

Twitch reports that Tom Yum Goong 2 is nearly finished with principle photography. Now that the film is reaching completion, Tony Jaa is lining up two new projects: one film, which may or may not be a Hong Kong-based project with Sammo Hung as fight choreographer, is said to co-star Jean-Claude Van Damme. In addition, Tony Jaa is looking to return to the director’s chair for a different film. That project may involve callaboration with Bangkok Knockout director Panna Rittikrai and Fighting Fish director Julaluck Ismalone. Stay tuned for further news as it develops. | M.M.A.C. says Tom Yum Goong 2 is slated for a December 5th, 2013 release date. | Click here to watch the Tom Yum Goong 2 trailer. Note: If you get an error, try doing a search.

BREAKING NEWS: According to Tom Yum Goong 2′s English Facebook page, Magnet Releasing has secured North American rights to the film and should be releasing it under the title The Protector 2. Stay tuned for official confirmation from Magnet but expect the official trailer for the movie this summer.. In the meantime, you can check out this new poster for Tom Yum Gong 2.

"Iceman Cometh" Promotional Poster

THE MOVIE: Donnie Yen is stepping into a role made famous by Yuen Biao with a 3D remake of the 1989 Hong Kong martial arts film The Iceman Cometh. Appledaily.com.hk has a video of Donnie Yen discussing (in Chinese) plans for the movie with Stephen Shiu, the producer of the original film. Donnie stars and serves as martial arts choreographer.

Directed by Clarence Ford (Cheap Killers), the original Iceman Cometh starred Yuen Biao, Maggie Cheung and Yuen Wah.

Updates: Twitch has the official teaser poster. In addition, check out their interview with producer Stephen Shiu, who says that Yuen Biao will have a duel with Donnie Yen. | Shooting began yesterday in Hong Kong.

Donnie Yen stars alongside Wang Baoqiang (Fire of Conscience), Simon Yam (Ip Man), and Eva Huang (The Sorcerer and the White Snake). | The film is expected to release in 2013.

On his Facebook site, Donnie Yen has posted what appears to be a behind-the-scenes image of him working on Iceman Cometh. | Here’s another image from Donnie Yen’s Facebook site. | Our friends at Martial Arts Action Cinema have some new, mostly behind the scenes, photos from the film. Pics one and two and three.

M.M.A.C. reports via JayneStars that progress is slow on Iceman Cometh; the film has been shooting for 4 months but is not even halfway completed. This is rare for the Hong Kong movie industry, where an entire movie can typically wrap filming in as little as 3 months. But it’s not as though Donnie has been taking it easy: his other action film Special Identity is now in post-production, and the crew on Iceman Cometh recently spent 10 days filming a 7-minute fight scene!

JayneStars reports the film’s budget has ballooned to $200 million Hong Kong dollars, which is roughly $25 million in US dollars. The producers suggest it’s mostly for insurance purposes, so the cast can continue to perform their own stunts. | HKsar has some new set photos of the cast on the Kai Tak airport runway.

Reports are coming out that Donnie Yen and the producers are unhappy that the Hong Kong Government has not been supportive of Iceman Cometh. The Government denied the crew the right to shoot on Tsing Ma Bridge and also claimed that the set lights were too bright during filming in Hong Kong proper. Simon Yam remains confident that the film will be successful at the box office regardless, especially since co-star Wang Baoqiang is coming off of one of the biggest Chinese films of all time, Lost in Thailand.

Our friend Danny Ho passed along this cool fan-made poster for the film, which should help build anticipation for Donnie Yen’s next action blockbuster. | MA Movie Junkie has a pack of photos and promotional shots from the movie.

A report from Impact Magazine suggests that Iceman Cometh will be split into two movies – which would likely help the producers recoup the budgetary costs. While Part 1 is screening in theaters, the filmmaking crew will use the extra time to wrap up Part 2 before Christmas ’13. In addition, Impact notes that Donnie Yen’s modern day action movie Special Identity is still stuck in post-production and litigation limbo. | Donnie Yen strikes a pose in this new promotional poster. Thanks to M.M.A.C. and Danny Ho.

BREAKING NEWS: Here’s the teaser trailer for the movie!

"Blood Ties" International Theatrical Poster

THE MOVIE: Blood Ties is a gangster/thriller by French director Guillaume Canet (Tell No One) about two brothers, on both sides of the law, who face off over organized crime in Brooklyn during the 1970s.

The film is a remake of a 2008’s Les liens du sang by Jacques Maillot (which is an adaptation of the French novel of the same name by Bruno and Michel Papet). The film stas Clive Owen, Billy Crudup, Cotillard, Zoe Saldana, Mila Kunis, Matthias Schoenaerts, Noah Emmerich, Lili Taylor and James Caan. Blood Ties will be released later this year.

Updates: Check out the poster and watch the trailer.

"The Empire Strikes Back" Japanese Theatrical Poster

In a move we dare say no one saw coming, Disney announced they have purchased Lucasfilm for $4.05 billion and stock options. Not only that but Disney has plans to produce a Star Wars: Episode VII for a targeted 2015 release.

In the official press release from Disney, George Lucas is quoted as saying “It’s now time for me to pass Star Wars on to a new generation of filmmakers.”

Now is also the time for the internet to pick its collective jaws off the floor and start speculating about just what the future could hold. Clearly, there are more stories to be told in a galaxy far, far away. What would our readers like to see from Episode VII? It’s probably too much to hope that Mark Hamill and Harrison Ford would reprise their roles, but are there really any younger actors around who’d be capable of filling the shoes of a post-Jedi Luke Skywalker?

In addition, Disney expects to release a Star Wars movie every 2-3 years starting in 2015. Episode VIII and IX are slated to arrive in 2017 and 2019, respectively. Every movie will be filmed in 3D.

Updates: Michael Arndt, who is responsible for writing Toy Story 3 and Little Miss Sunshine, is officially on board as a writer. | THR reports that Lawrence Kasdan (who co-wrote The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi) and Simon Kinberg (who wrote Mr. & Mrs. Smith and X-Men: The Last Stand) have locked deals to write and produce upcoming Star Wars installments. | Collider reports that Lawrence Kasdan and Simon Kinberg may be writing Star Wars spin-offs instead of sequels.

The Wrap report that J.J. Abrams (Super 8, Star Trek) is set to direct Star Wars: Episode VII. | The prequels (Episodes I, II and III) will be postponed from getting their theatrical 3D re-releases, so that Disney can concentrate on the sequels/spin-offs. | The latest news is that Disney has officially confirmed that screenwriters Lawrence Kasdan and Simon Kinberg are not only writing Episode VII, they’ll also be writing content for possible spin-off’s (i.e. Yoda’s own movie, Han Solo’s own story, etc).

Latino Review reports that Harrison Ford will return as Han Solo in Star Wars: Episode VII. No word on whether it will be a cameo or co-starring role. | Collider reports the latest rumor: Mark Hamill and Carrie Fisher might return for Star Wars: Episode VII, with the story revolving around Luke, Leia and Han’s children. Hamill says he is currently in talks, but no contracts have been signed yet. | According to George Lucas, Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher and Harrison Ford “Pretty Much” signed on for Star Wars: Episode VII.

The Guardian reports that the latest trilogy of Star Wars films will arrive in 2015, 2017 and 2019, Disney chairman Alan Horn has revealed. He also confirmed Disney is working on a number of spin-off “movies derived from that Star Wars universe.”

BREAKING NEWS: Beyond Hollywood relays word that actor Jonathan Rhys Meyers, who collaborated with J.J. Abrams on Mission: Impossible III, is a contendor for the lead in Episode VII.

"Transformers 4" Teaser Poster

THE MOVIE: Optimus Prime and Bumblebree return in Transformers 4, the as of yet untitled forth installment of Hasbro’s popular franchise. Michael Bay is directing once again. Mark Wahlberg will be playing the lead character who isn’t a giant robot. Tentative release date set for June 29, 2014.

Updates: Shia LaBeouf has chosen not to continue after the current installment. Variety indicates that Paramount has interest in shooting Transformers 4 and 5 back-to-back.

Via Screenrant, actor Josh Duhamel spoke with E! Online and seemed to confirm rumors that most of the human characters from the original trilogy won’t return – so don’t expect to see Duhamel, Tyrese Gibson, or Rosie Huntington-Whiteley.

In addition, another source claims that the tone of Transformers 4 will be “darker” like the “last hour of Dark of the Moon.” | Via AICN, Michael Bay reportedly says that Transformers 4 will feature a brand new cast for the human characters and a physical redesign of the returning robots. Also, this will be Bay’s last Transformers movie so the story will help set up Part 5 for a new director. | Is this the first teaser poster?

AICN pulls some more quotes from director Michael Bay, in which he reiterates that Part 4 will feature all new human characters but keep the three previous films as continuity. The next movie will cost about $30 million less than Dark of the Moon and may take place at least partially in space or on another planet. | Collider reports (via Huffington Post) on why Michael Bay decided to return to the series. | Beyond Hollywood speculates that Hugo Weaving will not return to voice the villainous Megatron.

EW reports that Michael Bay has officially confirmed that the star of Transformers 4 will be Mark Wahlberg. | In a TMZ interview (via Collider), Michael Bay states: “The movie will continue four years from the Attack on Chicago; which is in the last movie. So it’s going to still have the same lineage.” | Collider reports that Paramount is apparently hoping to set Transformers 4 in mainland China. | Deadline reports that Michael Bay has hired Jack Reynor (What Richard Did) to star opposite Mark Wahlberg.

The Michigan Film Office, of all places, has details on Transformers 4‘s plot since Michael Bay will be shooting part of the film in Detroit. The synopsis: “…Autobots and Decepticons have all but vanished from the face of the planet. However, a group of powerful, ingenious businessman and scientists attempt to learn from past Transformer incursions and push the boundaries of technology beyond what they can control – all while an ancient, powerful Transformer menace sets Earth in his crosshairs.”

Much like Iron Man 3 before it, Michael Bay’s latest sequel Transformers 4 will be a Chinese co-production. This will involve adding Chinese actors to the cast as well as select location shooting in China. Which Chinese actors or actresses would you like to see join the movie? | Twitch says that the producers will be casting four Chinese actors in the film via…a talent-based reality show on Chinese television. Yeah, there’s no way this could go horribly wrong. | Interestingly enough, Michael Bay has cast none other than Kelsey Grammer (Beast in X-Men: The Last Stand) as Transformers 4‘s human villain, a counter-intelligence agent.

BREAKING NEWS: Deadline reports that Chinese actress Li Bingbing (Resident Evil: Retribution, Triple Tap) had been added to the Transformers 4 cast. “I am excited to have Li Bingbing join our cast and to be shooting portions of the movie in her native China. I have always aspired to work with the best actors and this cast is especially exciting now with the addition of Li,” said Michael Bay.

"V/H/S/2" Theatrical Poster

In a move that is sure to please our webmaster Mighty Peking Man, the producers behind the indie-horror sensation V/H/S have announced a sequel. The first installment featured a series of ‘found footage’-style horror tales from various indie directors and V/H/S 2 will continue in this vein. In fact, the only filmmaker returning so far is Adam Wingard of A Horrible Way to Die fame.

But fear not, an impressive line-up of talent has already been assembled for the sequel. None other than Gareth Evans (Merantau, The Raid) will co-direct a segment with Indonesian horror filmmaker Timo Tjahjanto. In fact, according to an interview with Tjahjanto, their film has already been completed.

Says Tjahjanto: “It’s called project Safe Haven, an idea of mine that I have been keeping as a feature film, but never could find the right person to work with, cause the story is so absurd and over the top.”

Also look for Eduardo Sanchez (co-director on The Blair Witch Project) and Jason Eisener (Hobo With a Shotgun) to have a part in V/H/S 2. In the meantime, the original movie is still available via Video On Demand, while Magnet Releasing offers the Blu-ray and DVD come December 4th, 2012.

Update: Twitch Film has the first look at S-VHS, the sequel to V/H/S. Be warned that this still from The Raid director Gareth Evans’ contribution is quite bloody and probably NSFW! Check out the first teaser trailer for the film, which looks to have a bigger budget than its predecessor. | Check out the new poster.

BREAKING NEWS: Watch the latest Red Band trailer!

Nightfall Blu-ray & DVD (Well Go USA)

Hello, folks. As always: if you’re interested in any of these titles, you can support the site by ordering through our affiliate. We appreciate it!

Here are your Blu-ray and DVD releases for the week of 5/21/13:

ASIAN CINEMA

Nightfall (Blu-ray/DVD) – fan favorite Hong Kong actors Nick Cheung and Simon Yam star in this gritty 2012 crime thriller, available from Well Go USA

This Girl is Badass (Blu-ray/DVD) – the star of Thai martial arts film “Chocolate, Jeeja Yanin, headlines this 2011 action/comedy

Yakuza vs. Ninja (DVD) – in this Japanese action film set in ancient days, early organized crime squares off against deadly ninjas

Assassin (DVD) – in this 2011 Japanese action film, a deadly assassin tries to quit his way of life when he falls for an innocent high school girl. But it’s never that easy

Penny Pinchers (DVD) – this 2011 Korean romantic comedy follows an unlikely duo of ‘penny pinchers’ out to make a buck

In My End is My Beginning (DVD) – this 2009 dark erotic drama about sapphic love arrives from South Korea

MARTIAL ARTS AND ACTION

Prince of the City (DVD) – Michael Madsen of “Reservoir Dogs” fame co-stars in this 2012 direct-to-video action picture set in the Malaysian underworld

FOREIGN

Neighboring Sounds (Blu-ray/DVD) – in this 2012 Portugese-language film, a neighborhood in Brazil hires a private security firm but the company just ends up making things worse

MAINSTREAM

The Last Stand (Blu-ray/DVD) – Arnold Schwarzenegger is back in this 2013 action picture from acclaimed Korean director Kim Ji-woon (“I Saw the Devil”)

Parker (Blu-ray/DVD) – Jason Statham slips into a role previously portrayed by Lee Marvin and Mel Gibson in this 2013 crime thriller

Side Effects (Blu-ray/DVD) – Rooney Mara and Channing Tatum star in this 2013 medical thriller that might just be the last big screen effort from director Steven Soderbergh

Stand Up Guys (Blu-ray/DVD) – this 2013 comedy features Al Pacino, Christopher Walken, and Alan Arkin doing their thing

A Common Man (Blu-ray/DVD) – in this 2012 thriller, Ben Kingsley plays a man who has placed several bombs around a highly populated Indonesian city for an unknown purpose

NEW TO BLU-RAY

Medium Cool (Blu-ray/DVD) – the Criterion Collection releases this 1969 curio, a melding of fact and fiction as the filmmakers cover a real life riot, starring Robert Forster (“Jackie Brown”)

Captain America (Blu-ray) – Shout! Factory presents the Collector’s Edition of this 1990 superhero film from “Cyborg” director Albert Pyun

Ultimate Gangsters Collection: Classics (Blu-ray) – this set of vintage gangster films features the classics “Little Caesar,” “The Public Enemy,” “The Petrified Forest,” and “White Heat,” all in hi-definition. Also available separately (click on individual titles).

Ultimate Gangsters Collection: Contemporary (Blu-ray) – this set of modern gangster pictures includes “Mean Streets,” “The Untouchables,” “Goodfellas,” “Heat,” and “The Departed”

CULT

Spaghetti Westerns Unchained (DVD) – your friends at Blue Underground present a 3-disc, 400-minute long collection of Spaghetti Western movies, including “Django” and “Django Kill…If You Live, Shoot!”

Castle Freak (DVD) – long out of print, this 1995 effort from “Re-Animator” director Stuart Gordon returns to DVD

Thor the Conquerer (DVD) – this 1983 lost ‘grindhouse’-style film is a swords ‘n sandals epic out of Italy

Riot in a Woman’s Prison (DVD) – a 1974 grindhouse movie in the ‘women’s prison’ genre

SS Hell Camp (DVD) – this 1977 entry in the ‘Nazisploitation’ genre has to be seen to be believed

Zambo (DVD) – at one with the animals of the jungle, Zambo fights to protect Africa in this 1974 exploitation flick

HORROR

Cold Eyes of Fear: Remastered Edition (Blu-ray/DVD) – Redemption Films presents this 1971 picture, a rare giallo-style effort from cult Italian director Enzo G. Castellari

The Sinful Nuns of St. Valentine: Remastered Edition (Blu-ray/DVD) – this 1974 Italian exploitation picture asks the question: what happens when a nun ends up being a sadist?

The Town That Dreaded Sundown (Blu-ray + DVD combo) – Shout! Factory presents this 1974 horror film about a real life killer, which has developed a strong cult following over the years

The Burning (Blu-ray + DVD combo) – a 1981 slasher movie that many horror buffs consider superior to the “Friday the 13th” sequels

The ABC’s of Death (Blu-ray/DVD) – several of the biggest names in indie horror contribute to this 2012 series of 26 horror shorts based around letters of the alphabet

Subspecies: The Blu Ray Collection Volume 1 (Blu-ray) – the first three films in the cult vampire series are available together in hi-def

Interested in any of these movies? If so, we hope that you’ll consider ordering from our affiliate to help support this site. Thank you!

"Only God Forgives" Theatrical Poster

THE MOVIE: Ryan Gosling is currently in Bangkok filming a Thai boxing movie with Danish filmmaker Nicolas Refn. The two worked together in Refn’s 2011′s Drive, which has already gained cult, mainstream and critical status. According to imdb.com, the plot of Only God Forgives involves a Bangkok police lieutenant and a gangster who settle their differences in a Thai-boxing match. Additional cast members include Nowhere Boy’s Kristin Scott Thomas, Thai recording artist Yayaying and The Hangover Part II’s Vithaya Pansringarm.

Updates: Dark Horizons via Indiewire notes that Refn is bringing over Drive composer Cliff Martinez. | THR talked to Gosling about preparing for his Muy Thai boxing action scenes. | THR has the first photo from the film. | Filmofilia gives us more plot details. The Collider has a new image of Ryan Gosling from the movie. To put it quite simply, he looks like he’s been chewed-up-and-spat-out out by Tong Po.

The Playlist has Nicolas Winding Refn talking about making Only God Forgives and much more. | AICN has a rundown of the footage showed at Cannes. | Ropeofsilicon.com has posted some new behind-the-scenes photos. | The Film Stage has a promotional poster, presumably out of the American Film Market. Head over to Cinema Blend for a pack of new photos. | The first teaser trailer has been released, courtesy of Rope of Silicon. | Enjoy three new photos, courtesy of The Playlist.

Introducing the first teaser poster. In case you haven’t watched it yet, the Red Band trailer is now available on youtube and yahoo.

Two new international trailers have been released, both reveal more plot details. Check them out here and here. Keep in mind that they feature different footage, so watch em’ both. | Watch 3 new clips at The Playlist. | Watch the new featurette at The Playlist. | Another new poster has been revealed, plus head over to The Playlist for some new stills.

BREAKING NEWS: Filmofilia has 4 new clips.

"The Transporter 2" Japanese Theatrical Poster

Cinemax’s TV show based on The Transporter is still going strong, but it looks like everyone’s favorite ass-kicking courier Frank Martin may be destined to return to the big screen.

Producer Luc Besson has struck a deal with China’s Fundamental Films to produce a new trilogy of movies in the Transporter series. Each film will be budgeted in the $30 to $40 million range, which is reasonable enough; although Transporter 3 received the worst reviews in the franchise’s history, it grossed a solid $109 million worldwide.

What remains to be seen is if actor Jason Statham will return to the role that helped make him famous. The actor has a busy schedule lined up, with a possible turn in Fast and Furious 7, but we are hoping he’ll slip into the ‘ol suit and tie for at least one more ride as Frank Martin.

And with The Transporter 4 actively in development now, we expect to hear word on a director in the coming months. Our question, though: is there enough fan interest to warrant a whole new trilogy of these movies?

"Once Upon a Time in Vietnam" Cannes Promotional Poster

Back in 2007, former 21 Jump Street star Dustin Nguyen managed to reinvent his image by playing a nearly invincible martial artist bad guy in the Vietnamese hit The Rebel. Now Nguyen is parlaying his status in the burgeoning Vietnamese action scene by stepping behind the camera for an ambitious project.

Previously titled Monk on Fire but now known under the title of Once Upon a Time in Vietnam (AKA Lua Phat), the film is described as an ‘Eastern Western’ featuring motorbike-riding kung fu monks and large-scale battles. Not only will Dustin Nguyen direct but he penned the script. Cameras have officially started rolling on the movie, with Ballistic: Ecks Versus Sever helmer Wych Kaosayananda serving as director of photography. Thanks to Twitch Film for the story.

Update: Don’t miss the first action-packed teaser trailer. The link is updated with a high-quality trailer. Credit goes to Lee Mason, who is hard at work on a ‘behind the scenes’ feature for the film. Stay tuned for more info! | Get a look at the bad-ass teaser poster! | Check out the 2nd official poster. And be sure and watch the full trailer now! (Link has been fixed)

BREAKING NEWS: Beyond Hollywood offers this new poster and an English-subbed trailer. Once Upon a Time in Vietnam is currently up for sale at the Cannes Film Festival – we’ll see if any North American distributors take a bite! It feels like Dustin Nguyen’s movie might make a good fit at Well Go USA.

Nightfall Blu-ray & DVD (Well Go USA)

Cityonfire.com and Well Go USA are giving away 3 Blu-ray copies of Nightfall to three lucky Cityonfire visitors. To enter, simply add a comment to this post telling us what your favorite Hong Kong crime film is, along with a brief explanation of why it’s your favorite. We will be selecting three winners at random. Be sure to include your email address in the appropriate field so we can contact you for your home address. Additionally, please ‘Like Us‘ on cityonfire.com’s Facebook by clicking here.

The Blu-ray & DVD for Nightfall will be officially released on May 21, 2013. We will announce the 3 lucky winners on May 18th and ship out the prizes immediately.

CONTEST DISCLAIMER: You must enter by May 17th to qualify. Also, because Well Go USA holds the film’s U.S. rights, only U.S. residents may enter the contest. We sincerely apologize to our non-U.S. visitors.

WINNERS: Congratulations to Kyle, Anthony Crabtree and Nick. You have all been notified via email. Thanks to all for playing!

"The Legend of Zu" Cover Art

It is perhaps not possible to overstate the importance of the Zu series to Hong Kong cinema. Back in 1983, Tsui Hark’s Zu Warriors from the Magic Mountain single-handedly created Hong Kong’s special FX industry, much in the same way that Star Wars gave rise to Industrial Light and Magic. The film’s success also paved the way for Tsui Hark’s Film Workshop to become a production powerhouse during the 80′s and early 90′s.

When Tsui Hark announced the series would return with 2001′s The Legend of Zu (known as Zu Warriors in the US), Chinese audiences had their expectations at an all-time high; unfortunately, the film went on to be a Phantom Menace-style disappointment and some would argue that Tsui Hark’s career still hasn’t recovered from the blow.

Now, over a decade later, the Warriors from the Magic Mountain are making a comeback. Tsui Hark has announced plans for a new film in the series, titled Zu Warriors: Dawn of Darkness. This time around, action choreographer and filmmaker Yuen Woo-ping (Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon 2) is set to direct the picture. Shooting is expected to begin in Beijing this July and the movie will be in 3D. Casting details should be announced any day now.

"Special ID" Poster

Twitch reports that Donnie Yen held a press conference in Beijing yesterday to announce his latest film, titled Special Identity. The movie is a rip-roaring action yarn set in modern times and pits Donnie Yen against a formidable opponent in Vincent Zhao, the martial artist/actor famous for turns in True Legend and The Blade.

The project will be directed by Clarence Fok, who directed the original The Iceman Cometh that Donnie Yen happens to be remaking. He also helmed the classic Category III flick Naked Killer and the underrated 1998 film Cheap Killers.

The cinematographer on Special Identity is Peter Pau, a legend in his own right, having served as director of photography on films like Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon and The Bride With White Hair.

At the conference, Donnie Yen promised some “great action scenes” between himself and Vincent Zhao, while Zhao said to look forward to some epic car chases. The car stunts on Special Identity are being handled by Hong Kong luminary Bruce Law, who has films like The Beast Stalker and Flash Point to his credit, and is also handling the car work on Jackie Chan’s upcoming farewell to action, Chinese Zodiac. Special Identity is scheduled to release in China in November.

Update: Beyond Hollywood has some behind the scenes photos of the film, including one which looks like it depicts a massive Triad gangwar.

Twitch has some shocking news: Vincent Zhao has dropped out of Special Identity. Andy On (Black Mask 2, King of Triads) has been cast to replace Vincent Zhao. Beyond Hollywood has the word on Zhao’s departure straight from Donnie Yen. Jaynestars.com posted a new, interesting article that has Vincent Zhao blasting Donnie Yen’s domineering ways. HKtop10 has the latest on the Donnie Yen and Vincent Zhao fiasco.

HKtop10 has posted stills from the Special Identity. Mtime.com reports that Flash Point’s Collin Chou has joined the Special Identity cast. | HKtop10 reports that Mainland director Tan Bing (who was originally going to direct Special Identity back when it was still known as The Ultimate Codebreak) held a press conference and made several accusations against Donnie Yen. | Asian Movie Pulse has more on the issue, with claims that Donnie Yen may be taking Vincent Zhao to court.

Via Twitch, Donnie Yen’s official website has a gallery of pictures, including many behind-the-scenes photos and action shots from Special Identity. The film is currently in post-production and should be on track for a November release date.

Andy On speaks! In a new interview, the veteran martial artist/actor stays pretty quiet about the Donnie/Vincent feud but lets it slip that he and Donnie share a 10 minute fight scene in the film. In fact, Andy makes it sound like he and Donnie went ‘full contact’ for their fight – and we believe him! Thanks to Martial Arts Action Cinema for the story.

When Andy On signed on to Special Identity to replace Vincent Zhao, most fans assumed that the film’s ‘final fight’ would be a bout between Donnie and Andy – especially when Andy revealed he has a 10 minute fight scene with Donnie in the movie. Well, new details have surfaced and it turns out Special Identity‘s climactic showdown will be between Donnie Yen and Collin Chou. What do you folks think: can these two martial arts stars possibly top their incredible battle at the end of 2007′s Flash Point?

BREAKING NEWS: Don’t miss the new poster for the film, which suggests the movie may be released under the title Special ID.

"Licence to Kill" Japanese Theatrical Poster

Agent 007′s latest adventure, Skyfall, has gone on to become the most successful James Bond film of all time. With a final gross of over $1 billion worldwide, it’s no surprise that the Bond producers have asked Skyfall director Sam Mendes to return to helm Daniel Craig’s next outing as the super spy.

Latino Review reported that John Logan (Gladiator), one of four credited writers on Skyfall, has already been hired to write the next two films in the franchise. And director Mendes even told Total Film that he has an idea for Bond 24.

However, as of today, the official word is that Sam Mendes has declined the offer to direct the next Bond film.

Mendes will resume his work in the theater world, focusing on his upcoming productions like Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and King Lear. So the question remains: now that Skyfall has proven James Bond is more popular than ever, which filmmaker will orchestrate the highly anticipated follow-up to Skyfall?

Update: Collider reports that MGM plans to release the next Bond movie within 3 years. The article also mentions that the new director will be announced soon.

BREAKING NEWS: The Daily Mail reports that Christopher Nolan (The Dark Knight Rises) has been approached by Bond producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G Wilson to direct the next 007 movie.