"Die Hard" Japanese Theatrical Poster

THE MOVIE: Yyippee ki yay, mo- well, you know the rest. Yes, Bruce Willis is back once again as John McClane for a fifth installment in the Die Hard franchise, titled A Good Day to Die Hard. This time John McClane travels to Moscow, Russia to team up with his son and foil some kind of terrorist plot. Directed by John Moore (Max Payne). In theaters on February 14, 2013.

Updates: According to deadline.com, Die Hard 5 is moving forward at 20th Century Fox. The film has been scripted by Skip Woods. The Hollywood Reporter notes that The Omen ’06′s and Max Payne’s John Moore is the new Die Hard 5 director. Awesome article called “Take THIS Under Advisement: Hey, ‘Die Hard 5,’ Don’t Drag Down A Classic“. Indiewire notes that Mary Elizabeth Winstead won’t reprise her role as Lucy McClane. Screen Rant reports rumors that the official title will be A Good Day to Die Hard. Shooting should begin in January with a target release of February 2013. Casting has begun for McClane’s son. THR reports that Hunger Games’ Liam Hemsworth, Mission Impossible III’s Aaron Paul, and 30 Days of Night’s Ben Foster are up for the part. Deadline notes that FOX is aiming for a Valentine’s Day date.

BREAKING NEWS: Spartacus: Blood and Sand actor Jai Courtney has beat out Liam Hemsworth for the coveted role of John McClane’s son. Personally, I was rooting for Ben Foster but oh well. Courtney will also be seen in Tom Cruise’s upcoming Jack Reacher movie One Shot. Thanks to Beyond Hollywood for the story.

"Secret Reunion" Korean Theatrical Poster

Before he wowed international audiences with his blistering Korean War drama The Front Line, director Jung Hun delivered a decidedly modern thriller in Secret Reunion. This 2010 film stars Korea’s most recognizable actor, Song Kang-ho (Thirst, The Host, Memories of Murder), alongside Kang Dong-Won of Haunters fame in a North vs. South Korea spy game.

Song Kang-ho plays a disgraced federal agent who alternately hunts down and befriends Kang Dong-Won’s North Korean spy.

Trusted retailer DDDHouse is now accepting pre-orders on the Region A Blu-ray for only $16.03 and the Region 3 PAL DVD for only $12.56. The disc releases on March 8th.

Secret Reunion screened at the 2010 New York Film Festival where it was billed as “2010’s most heartwarming shoot-’em-up,” combining “manly hugs with messy headshots.” Check out the trailer.

"Nunchucku" Chinese Theatrical Poster

Nunchuku is a new Mandarin-language martial arts film slated to hit Chinese theaters on March 2, 2012. It’s also a difficult film to bring you information on since not much has been written about it in English! From what Cityonfire.com has been able to gather, the picture is directed by and stars an actor named Chen Star.

The film explores themes of honor, family, and loyalty, but also features Chen Star kicking tons of ass with his deadly pair of nunchucks. Not surprisingly, Chen Star reportedly draws great inspiration from Bruce Lee. In the trailer for Nunchucku, it’s clear that Chen’s mannerisms, Chi-type noises, and nunchuck-wielding ways are meant to channel the great martial arts icon.

Although it’s been a challenge for us English speakers to find any information on this film, Nunchucku won the 5th Cologne award at the Cologne Film Festival in Germany last year. Hopefully some reviews of the film will pop up online after it hits Chinese theaters and we can find out if Chen Star successfully pays homage to Bruce Lee.

"Pacific Rim" Teaser Poster

THE MOVIE: When an alien attack threatens the Earth’s existence, giant robots piloted by humans are deployed to fight off the menace. This is Hellboy and Pan’s Labyrinth director Guillermo Del Toro’s ode to the Godzilla movies of his youth. Tentative release date set for summer 2013.

Updates: Idris Elba has joined the cast. And the film apparently has mechs. Sky Crawlers’ Rinko Kikuchi has been cast as Mako Mori, a pilot of the Jaeger, a robot used to fight the alien invaders. Redbelt’s Max Martini has been added to the cast. Red Tails’ Robert Kazinsky has been added to the cast, while Boondocks Saints’ Willem Dafoe is close to joining. Del Toro says the film is inspired by Japanese monster movies. Scott Pilgrim’s Clifton Collins Jr. has been added to the cast. Lucky Number Slevin’s Diego Klattenhoff has been added to the cast. THR notes that Rim has been moved up from July 23 to May 10. Saw writers Patrick Melton and Marcus Dunstan are giving ‘Rim a rewrite. Ron Perlman has been added to the cast. Rinko Kikuchi talked to Collider about the film. ScreenRant has a production update on the film. Also, there will be toys.

BREAKING NEWS: More on the film from Screenrant. Actor Idris Elba claims that while much of the movie will be CGI-based, they’ve still constructed a lot of sets for the production. Script doctors Marcus Dunstan and Patrick Melton claim that Pacific Rim will be director Guillermo Del Toro’s first “four quadrant movie,” meaning one that will appeal to men and women of all ages. Melton suggests the film is headed for no higher than a PG-13 rating.

Sahinduezguen's fan made "Skyfall" Poster

THE MOVIE: Road to Perdition’s Sam Mendes is directing Bond 23. Bond’s loyalty to M is tested as her past comes back to haunt her. As MI6 comes under attack, 007 must track down and destroy the threat, no matter how personal the cost. In theaters November 9, 2012.

Updates: Empire confirmed the title, revealed some of the film’s locales, revealed more about the characters, a logo, and got comments from the staff. Comicbookmovie.com revealed more of the premise, and has a cast interview. Screenwriter who sort of denies the claim that Skyfall will not be part of the recent story continuity. People indicates that Craig is close to signing a deal to play Bond in five more movies. Movieweb suggests that Fiennes is the new “M”-replacing Dench-and that the film will revolve around his character’s backstory. A pic of Craig looking sharp in his tux via Dark Horizons and USA Today. This pic was begging for a caption, so I’ll go with, “Who wears short shorts?” The premise is now online. THR seems to confirm the film as being standalone from the last two Craig-led installments. Harris denied she’s playing Moneypenny. Plus, the link apparently has more Craig on the street pics. Dark Horizons via 007.com linked a pic of Craig with a gun and a five o’clock shadow. See Craig run.

BREAKING NEWS: AICN posted a videoblog that has Sam Mendes talking about the movie.

"Piranha 3DD" International Teaser Poster

THE MOVIE: After the events at Lake Victoria, the pre-historic school of blood-thirsty piranhas make their way into a newly opened waterpark. Taking over Alexandre Aja’s director’s chair will be John Gulager, who is known for the Feast films.

Updates: Gary Busey has been added to the cast. Christopher Lloyd, Ving Rhames, and original Piranha 3-D actor Paul Scheer have been added to the cast. David Hasselhoff has joined the cast. It appears Piranha 3DD has been delayed indefinitely until at least 2012. Trailer Addict uploaded the SCREAM teaser. Watch it before it gets taken down. Bloody Disgusting denies that 3DD will go DTV.

BREAKING NEWS: AICN posted two international teaser posters.

Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol Blu-ray & DVD (Paramount)

RELEASE DATE: April 17, 2012

Blamed for the bombing of the Kremlin, agent Ethan Hunt is disavowed when the President initiates “Ghost Protocol”. Brad Bird, who gave us The Incredibles, re-juices the franchise with Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol, starring Tom Cruise, Paula Patton, Jeremy Renner, Simon Pegg and Vladimir Mashkov. Read cityonfire.com’s review. Watch the trailer.

"Detention's" Cinderhella

From the director of Torque, the 2004 Fast ‘n Furious clone that blew audience’s virgin minds with its video game cutscene-like special effects and blatant Mountain Dew advertising, comes Detention, one of the most buzzed about flicks at last year’s South By Southwest. The film is a self-aware, tongue-in-cheek parody of horror films that AICN described as a cross between Scott Pilgrim and Scream. Not much was heard about the Joseph Kahn-helmed movie after SXSW, leaving many horror fans to wonder if they were ever going to get the chance to see it.

Fortunately, AICN reports that Samuel Goldwyn Films have granted Detention a April 13th release date. The cast features Josh Hutcherson, Dane Cook, Spencer Locke, and Aaron Perilo. Check out the trailer here.

Michael Fassbender

Since No Country For Old Men author Cormac McCarthy sold his first spec script to Hollywood a few weeks ago, the project, titled The Counselor, has been on the fast track – and that’s putting it mildly.

It didn’t take long before Blade Runner and Alien filmmaker Ridley Scott signed on to direct and today AICN reports that acclaimed actor Michael Fassbender (X-Men: First Class, Shame) is attached to the lead.

The Counselor is about a lawyer who thinks he can dip his toe in the drug business without consequences and soon finds himself in way over his head. AICN also claims that Jeremy Renner, Brad Pitt, and Bradley Cooper are in talks to play the villain. Principal photography on the film starts May 1st.

"John Carter" Japanese Teaser Poster

THE MOVIE: John Carter is Disney’s tremendously expensive big screen adaptation of Edgar Rice Burroughs’ famous series of novels which began with A Princess of Mars way back in 1917.The film is directed by Andrew Stanton, director on breakout Pixar hits Finding Nemo and Wall-E. The cast includes Taylor Kitsch, Lynn Collins, Willem Dafoe, Thomas Haden Church, and Samantha Morton. In theaters on March 9, 2012.

THE TRAILER: Courtesy of Apple Quicktime.

Updates: Some pics here. GMA footage here. Check out some banners and pics for Carter. Another teaser poster, courtesy of CBM. More pics, courtesy of CBM and Empire. TheMoviebox.net linked new TV spots. The princess in another costume. Enjoy a gorgeous sample of composer Michael Giacchino’s score. Japanese poster, courtesy of CBM. More pics at CBM. CBM reports that you can already get early tickets. CBM has a look at an IMAX 3D poster. New footage in the featurette. Info on the book John Carter is based on. New spot, Interview with the FX guy, Andre Stanton, courtesy of CBM, and a new white apes poster. Check out the TV trailer and Super Bowl spot for John Carter. AICN has posted a new clip & PSA. Reportedly director Andrew Stanton and his co-writer, novelist Michael Chabon, are hard at work writing the screenplay for a sequel and an outline for the rest of the series.

Want all the latest news on upcoming films such as John Carter? Visit the new LOVEFiLM twitter page where you can find all the latest infomation from the film world.

BREAKING NEWS: AICN premiered a poster from graphic designers Mondo that is, quite simply, better than any of the advertising Disney has come up with so far themselves.

"Flying Swords of Dragon Gate" actresses Mavis Fan and Kwai Lun Mei

The 2012 Berlin Film Festival may have just wrapped a few days ago, with the Italian docudrama Caesar Must Die taking home the Golden Bear for Best Picture, but there’s no doubt that Chinese filmmakers made a strong impression at the international fest.

Acclaimed director Zhang Yimou was on hand with star Christian Bale for his new film The Flowers of War, about the Nanking Massacre in 1937. The film won rave reviews from critics. Danish journalist Martin Wolsgaard declared, “I think it’s almost safe to say it’s the best film I am going to see at this festival.”

Also at the Berlin Film Fest was Cityonfire.com favorite Tsui Hark with his new 3D wuxia film Flying Swords of Dragon Gate.

The film co-stars Jet Li and Zhou Xun and serves as an update on the 1966 film Dragon Gate Inn and Hark’s own 1992 venture New Dragon Gate Inn. With a budget of $35 million US dollars and 3D design from the visual effects supervisor of James Cameron’s Avatar, there’s no doubt that Hark’s movie is destined to impress American audiences when we finally get the chance to see it.

Lastly, the 1964 Chinese hand-drawn animated feature The Monkey King received a 3D update courtesy of Avatar and Harry Potter effects designers. The film screened out of competition to the delight of younger audiences at the Berlin Film Fest. The character of the Monkey King continues to fascinate Chinese audiences, with Donnie Yen set to star as the folk hero in an effects-heavy blockbuster this July.

Chinese audiences enjoying a 3D Film

For decades, China has allowed 20 “blockbuster” foreign films to be screened in its country year round. Last year, movies like Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows and Transformers: Dark of the Moon ended up becoming breakout hits in the country, much to the chagrin of the Chinese government, who were hoping that historical pieces like Beginning of the Great Revival would garner higher ticket sales. Now it appears that the tide is turning.

Yesterday, it was announced that China would be increasing that foreign film quota to 34 blockbusters, which is quite the boost. There is a catch, though: these extra 14 films must be in either IMAX format or 3D. In addition, Hollywood studios will be allowed to keep 25% of the box office gross rather than the current 13%.

The new status quo is part of a last minute deal struck by Chinese Vice President Xi Jinping and American Vice President Joe Biden during Jinping’s visit to the country. How this new deal will affect China’s own film industry remains to be seen but one thing is for certain, now there will be even more big-budget movies competing for Chinese theater screens and ticket sales.

"The Avengers" American Teaser Poster

THE MOVIE: Joss Whedon, creator of Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Firefly, has assembled Earth’s mightiest heroes for a big screen adaptation. This is the movie that all of Marvel Studios’ movies like Captain America and Thor have been building up to. The budget is a whopping $220 million and the cast includes Robert Downey Jr., Chris Evans, Chris Hemsworth, Mark Ruffalo, Scarlett Johansson, Jeremy Renner, and Samuel L. Jackson. In theaters on May 4, 2012.

THE TRAILER: Courtesy of Apple Quicktime.

Updates: CG version of the Hulk is based off Mark Ruffalo and his chest hair. Footage of action scenes here. Footage of a Captain vs. Loki fight here. New international trailer. Joss Whedon claims the films takes place from Captain America’s perspective. Joss also says this is less of an action movie and more of a thinking man’s superhero picture. CBM has a look at the Hulk. Joss Whedon brings up the Firefly movie Serenity in relation to The Avengers. Check out Tony Stark’s new ride. New Loki pic. Twitter chat between Whedon, Jackson, Hiddleston, and Clark Gregg. Incredible new Superbowl spot. Are these toys what we can expect the aliens to look like in the film? The visual effects supervisor on Avengers has revealed a little bit on what we can expect from the opening sequence of the film and Whedon’s general take on the characters, including the Hulk.

Want all the latest news on upcoming films such as The Avengers? Visit the new LOVEFiLM facebook page where you can find all the latest infomation from the film world.

BREAKING NEWS: AICN has posted two new photos.

"War of the Arrows" Korean Theatrical Poster

Director: Kim Han-Min
Writer: Kim Han-Min
Producer: Won-seok Jang, Sung-hwan Kim
Cast: Park Hae-Il, Ryu Seung-Ryong, Moon Chae-Won, Kim Moo-Yeol, Park Gi-Woong, Lee Han-Wi, Lee Kyung-Young
Running Time: 122 min.

By HKFanatic

“War of the Arrows” is a blockbuster Korean film set during the Second Manchu invasion of Korea in the mid-17th century. Our hero, Nam-Yi, is the best archer in all the land – but his father was murdered when he was just a boy for opposing the laws of the King. Nam-Yi and his sister, Ja-In, were taken in as orphans by a local lord. Time has passed and now the lord’s son is asking for Ja-In’s hand in marriage. Nam-Yi reluctantly agrees to give his sister away. All is well on the happy wedding day…until some damn Manchus come riding over the hill and ransack the entire village. They kidnap Ja-In and her groom and set Nam-Yi on the trail to rescue them both. But can he overcome his inner doubt and hone his bow skills in time to save them?

This film ended up becoming the #1 box office hit in South Korea last year with over 7 million admissions. I wish I could say I knew why it captivated audiences as much as it did but I found “War of the Arrows” to be merely serviceable as an historical action piece. It is handsomely produced, there’s no doubt about that, with solid special effects and lengthy action sequences. If you just want to see characters whizzing arrows at each other for 2 hours, you’ll probably be entertained.

On that note, the last thirty minutes of the movie is devoted almost entirely to an extended chase sequence, featuring our protagonist on the run from a well-trained team of Manchus. They hide behind rocks, fire arrows at each other, jump across cliffs, and even do battle with a computer-generated tiger. There’s not much dialogue during this segment of the film and it admittedly goes on much longer than necessary, but this is definitely the height of the action quotient in “War of the Arrows.”

Much like Ridley Scott’s attempt at reviving “Robin Hood” in 2010, “War of the Arrows” is a lavishly mounted epic that left me feeling disconnected with what was happening onscreen. It wasn’t long before I realized this was not a movie where logic would come into play: during the first five minutes, some pursuit dogs run right past a pair of hiding kids as though they’ve suddenly lost their sense of smell. Later on, about a dozen characters make a inhuman leap across a chasm and climb a sheer rockface, a feat that would be impressive even in an episode of “Dragonball Z.”

Lately I’ve found that Korean movies sometimes have a habit of making their protagonists foible to a fault. I understand that we need to feel like our hero isn’t perfect and that he has some personal adversity to overcome in addition to defeating the bad guys. But scenes of Nam-Yi puking his guts out after a night of binge drinking, breaking down in tears, or continually missing the target with his arrow don’t inspire much confidence in our hero. I want a good guy who comes across as capable, not one who seems like he might not even be up to the occasion. I had similar feelings with another recent Korean film, “The Sword With No Name.” Nam-Yi seems to persevere in this film not because he’s particularly brave or smart but because, in the end, he’s the best shot with a bow

“War of the Arrows” arrives on Region 1 Blu-ray+DVD combo from distributor Well Go USA. Once again, they have done an excellent job packing an Asian film for the Western market. The visual transfer is superb and allows the scenery and costume details to truly pop. The only effect that sticks out like a sore thumb is the tiger that is alternately CG and green-screened into the movie but, hey, what are you going to do. You can’t exactly dump a live tiger into the midst of actors anymore. Overall, “War of the Arrows” has its slow parts and its predictable moments but if you’re craving arrow-slinging action and fierce Manchu warriors, it should fit the ticket.

HKFanatic’s Rating: 6/10

The Godfather Collection: The Coppola Restoration Blu-ray (Paramount)

Today’s Deal on Fire is The Godfather Collection – The Coppola Restoration on Blu-ray, a 4-disc set that includes The Godfather, The Godfather II, The Godfather III and a fourth disc containing endless documentaries and special features. If you own a Blu-ray player – this set – especially at $25, is a must-own!

"POV ~Norowareta Film ~" Japanese Theatrical Poster

It had to happen sometime. The Japanese horror genre appears to have gone all Blair Witch Project and Cloverfield on us with a new film titled POV ~Norowareta Film~. The good news is POV actually looks like it could be a lot of fun. The film just hit Japanese theaters on February 18th and Far East Films has the trailer.

In the movie, two high school girls set out to capture physic phenomena on film and soon discover strange things afoot in their own school. The trailer trots out the usual J-horror tropes like creepy female ghosts but seems to deliver it in a fresh way thanks to the unique video camera-style cinematography. A more detailed synopsis of the plot is available at the link.

"Space Battle Yamato 2199" Character Designs

Ah, who can forget the 1980′s practice of taking popular and long-running anime series and chopping them down, editing them for content, and dubbing them for American children?

Cartoons like Robotech and Star Blazers were landmark shows for a generation of kids who had no idea these high-tech space operas were from Japan until they got much older.

Now the series that inspired Star Blazers, Space Battleship Yamato, is making a comeback in a big way. Ain’t It Cool News has an early look at the amazing concept art and animation for Space Battleship Yamato 2199.

Upon completion, the first two episodes of this new show will actually screen in Japanese theaters before the TV show kicks off on April 7, 2012.

In the meantime, you may want to check out the 2010 live-action Space Battleship Yamato. This film was a box office smash in Japan but never secured Western distribution. Fortunately, you can still order it from trusted retailer DDDHouse, who are carrying the film on Region A Blu-ray for $30. 77 and 2-disc Region 3 DVD for $18.21.

"New Dragon Inn'" Chinese Theatrical Poster

1992′s New Dragon Inn is remastered and back on mainland big screens this February 24 (in other words, none of us are seeing it). Directed by East is Red’s Raymond Lee, New Dragon Inn is a remake of King Hu’s 1966 classic, Dragon Gate Inn. It stars Brigitte Lin, Maggie Cheung, Tony Leung Ka Fai and Donnie Yen.

New Dragon Inn is widely regarded as the peak of wuxia dramas and was a huge hit at the 1993 Sundance Film Festival, which had audiences cheering. According to hkcinemamagic.com, both Ching Siu Tung and Tsui Hark (who also wrote and produced) are given credit as directors. Check out the HKL DVD trailer.

Hero Blu-ray (Miramax)

Today’s Deal on Fire is Zhang Yimou’s 2002 wuxia film Hero, which stars Jet Li, Tony Leung, Maggie Cheung, Chen Daoming, Zhang Ziyi and Donnie Yen. The plot revolves around a nameless soldier (Jet Li), who embarks on a mission of revenge against the fearsome army that massacred his people.

"The Legend of the Lone Ranger" Theatrical Poster

THE MOVIE: The Pirates of the Caribbean director wants to adapt the Western classic about a cowboy crime-fighter and his Native American sidekick in a “Don Quixote” fashion, where the titular character is the fool, and his buddy, Tonto, is the star. The film has a May 31, 2013 release date.

Updates: MTV news has Depp discussing the movie  here. THR notes the sequences featuring a supernatural coyote attack is gone. There is  “selective re-casting” involved. Collider discussed the movie with Depp. The film is shooting under the alias Silver Bullet in New Mexico, and looking for Native American extras. Deadline reports that Ruth Wilson has been added to the cast. Collider indicates that Tom Wilkinson will play the villain. True Blood’s James Frain is up for the part of a foreman. They’re looking for Asian extras to play railroad workers. World War Z’s James Badge Dale will play Hammer’s brother.

BREAKING NEWS: AICN has a glimpse of some beautiful location shots.

"War of the Arrows"American Blu-ray Cover

It’s slim pickings this week as far as Asian cinema goes but, hey, there’s plenty for fans of global cinema and classic Hollywood films to enjoy. So let’s get cracking. Here are your Blu-ray and DVD releases for the week of 2/21/12:

ASIAN CINEMA

War of the Arrows (Blu-ray/DVD) – the biggest Korean box office sensation of 2011 comes to home formats courtesy of top Asian film distributor Well Go USA

Left Handed (DVD) – Vanguard Films releases this micro-budgeted 2008 Japanese-language film about a young boy who shuts himself in his room for two years

Alien vs. Ninja (Blu-ray+DVD combo) – this silly but fun 2010 Japanese splatterflick gets an update to a Blu-ray+DVD combo pack from Funimation

IMPORT ASIAN

Turning Point 2 (Blu-ray/DVD) – Michael Tse brings his popular character of Laughing Gor to life once again in this 2011 sequel to the blockbuster film. Also starring Francis Ng and Chapman To. On All Region Blu-Ray or Region 3 DVD from your friends at DDDHouse. Available February 23

Sector 7 (Blu-ray/DVD) – the 2011 South Korean monster movie comes to 3D Region A Blu-ray and Region 3 DVD from DDDHouse. Available February 23

FOREIGN CINEMA

World on a Wire (Blu-Ray/DVD) – the Criterion Collection presents Rainer Werner Fassbinder’s landmark, surreal 1973 science fiction film in hi-def

Maigret – Set 1 (DVD) – the crime fiction of Georges Simenon comes to life in this series of adapted French-language films, collected together on DVD

Octubre (DVD) – a 2010 Spanish language dark comedy that won accolades at Cannes, about a loan shark who is left with a baby

MAINSTREAM

J. Edgar (Blu-ray/DVD) – Clint Eastwood’s 2011 biopic starring Leonardo DiCaprio as J. Edgar Hoover

Martha Marcy May Marlene (Blu-ray/DVD) – the 2011 critically acclaimed film starring Elizabeth Olson as a runaway member of a cult

Tower Heist (Blu-ray/DVD) – this 2011 film from “Rush Hour” director Brett Ratner features the duo of Eddie Murphy and Ben Stiller

London Boulevard (Blu-Ray/DVD) – the directorial debut of the writer of “The Departed” brings together Colin Farrell and Keira Knightley for a 2011 London crime thriller

The Son of No  One (Blu-ray/DVD) – Channing Tatum stars alongside Ray Liotta in a 2011 cop drama from the director of “A Guide to Recognizing Your Saints”

Retreat (DVD) – Cillian Murphy, Jamie Bell, and Thandie Newton co-star in this 2011 paranoid thriller

Track 29 (DVD) – Gary Oldman, Theresa Russell, and Christopher Lloyd star in this 1988 drama. Is Gary Oldman a troubled woman’s long lost son or just a figment of her imagination?

Blood Shed: Brother Revenge (DVD) – not much is known about this 2011 film but the cover art features a gun and promises “A Thrilling Jamaican Movie!”

CLASSICS

Anatomy of a Murder (Blu-ray/DVD) – the Criterion Collection offers this classic 1959 legal thriller starring Jimmy Stewart and Ben Gazzara

Fort Apache (Blu-ray/DVD) – John Ford directs John Wayne and Henry Fonda in this 1948 film

Conflict (DVD) – this 1945 classy crime thriller starring Humphrey Bogart will be available on February 23

Chain Lighting (DVD) – a 1949 Humphrey Bogart film of romance and heroics on DVD this February 23

In the Cool of the Day (DVD) – this 1963 film full of romantic intrigue and starring Peter Finch and Jane Fonda will be available on February 23 as well

The Stranger/Kansas City Confidential (Blu-ray) – two classic films on one Blu-ray. “Kansas City Confidential” came out in 1952. “The Stranger” stars Orson Welles and came out in 1946.

Sherlock Holmes and The Secret Weapon (DVD) – a 1943 film starring Basil Rathbone in the famous role

HORROR

Double Exposure (DVD) – Katrina’s Nightmare Theater presents a remastered widescreen version of this 1983 horror flick that has a cover reminiscent of Brian De Palma’s “Body Double”

Zaat (Blu-ray) – this 1971 creature feature is considered by many to be one of the worst movies of all time. And now it’s on Blu-ray

Big Foot (DVD) – a 1970 movie about big foot. What more could you ask for? The cover says “the greatest monster movie since King Kong”

Inkubus (DVD) – veteran character actors Robert Englund and William Forsythe star in this 2011 chiller involving a demon

Mark of Cain/Thrillkill (DVD) – Katrina’s Nightmare Theater offers two vintage 80′s horror flicks on one DVD

Whispers (DVD) – Katrina’s Nightmare Theater rolls out this 1990 adaptation of Dean R. Koontz’s novel

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!

The Shock Labyrinth Blu-ray & DVD (Well Go USA)

RELEASE DATE: May 8, 2012

Get ready for The Shock Labyrinth (aka The Shock Labyrinth 3D), directed by Takashi Shimizu (Ju-on: The Grudge). The Shock Labyrinth is the story of a group of teenagers who are suddenly confronted with the return of a friend who was thought to be dead. The film takes place in an amusement park called Fuji-Q Highland, which features “The Haunted Hospital,” the largest haunted house in the world. Check out the trailer.

Sylvester Stallone

THE MOVIE: A prison security expert is framed and forced to escape his own high-tech security prison. Sly Stallone is taking on a role previously considered for Bruce Willis. Shooter’s Antoine Fuqua was originally attached to direct. Road House 2′s Miles Chapman(?) wrote the original script and Machine Gun Preacher’s Jason Keller is doing a rewrite.

UPDATES: An official press release announced today that Arnold Schwarzenegger will star opposite Sylvester Stallone in the action/thriller The Tomb, which will be directed by Swedish filmmaker Mikael Hafstrom. “I am thrilled to be making The Tomb with two film icons – Sylvester Stallone and Arnold Schwarzenegger,” said producer Mark Canton. “It is the perfect pairing for this high octane thriller.”

BREAKING NEWS: AICN reports that Jim Caviezel has joined the cast.

"The Front Line" Korean Theatrical Poster

RELEASE DATE: May 8, 2012

Well Go USA announces Jang Hun’s The Front Line which is Korea’s 2011 submission to the Academy Award category of Best Foreign Picture. The film tells the story of the fierce struggle to establish a border between North and South Korea at the end of the Korean War and is currently a box office smash in its native country. Check out the trailer.

Films of Fury: The Kung Fu Movie Movie DVD (Phase 4 Films)

RELEASE DATE: May 1, 2012

From Enter the Dragon to Kung Fu Panda and everything in between, Films of Fury: The Kung Fu Movie Movie features the genre’s greatest on-screen warriors, and reveals the legend, the lore, and the loony of the Kung Fu film genre like it has never been seen before. Based on Ric Meyers’ best-selling book, Films of Fury: The Kung Fu Movie Book. Check out the trailer.

Lethal Weapon: The Complete Collection Blu-ray (Warner Bros.)

RELEASE DATE: June 12, 2012

Warner Bros. presents the Lethal Weapon: The Complete Collection on Blu-ray. Along with Die Hard, the first Lethal Weapon is one of the greatest action films of all time. The sequels that followed have nothing on the original, but as a whole, the franchise is solid entertainment. All films are directed by genius filmmaker, Richard Donner (“Superman”).

Apocalypse Now - Full Disclosure Edition 3-Disc Blu-ray (Lionsgate)

Today’s Deal on Fire is Francis Ford Coppola’s Apocalypse Now – Full Disclosure Edition 3-Disc Blu-ray set, which includes Apocalypse Now, the extended Apocalypse Now Redux, and Hearts of Darkness, an award-winning documentary which chronicles Apocalypse Now’s production problems that nearly destroyed the life and career of Francis Ford Coppola.

"The Amazing Spider-Man" Teaser Poster

THE MOVIE: 500 Days of Summer director Marc Webb presents the untold story of Spider-Man’s origin in Sony’s The Amazing Spider-Man, featuring Andrew Garfield (The Social Network) as the costumed web-slinger. Also starring Emma Stone, Rhys Ifans, Martin Sheen, and Sally Field. In theaters July 3, 2012.

THE TRAILER: Courtesy of Apple Quicktime.

Updates: ComicBookMovie via Latino Review has an interview with Webb on Spider-Man. Oh, and some more pics, courtesy of The Hollywood Reporter. THR has more info from Webb on the creative process behind the new Spidey. CBM also uploaded MTV video interviews with Garfield. CBM via Comic-Con Annual posted an interview with Stone.

BREAKING NEWS: The first official clip from the film features Peter Parker vs. Gwen Stacy’s doorman. AICN rightly pointed out that we already saw a variation on this scene (featuring Bruce Campbell!) in Spider-Man 2 but, oh well. All that’s old is new again, right?

"Battle Royale” Japanese Movie Poster

42 Students, Three Days, One Survivor, No Rules. Clever, creepy and ultra-violent, Battle Royale, one of the most controversial cult films ever made, will be shown in North American theaters for a limited time.

According to Blu-ray.com, Anchor Bay Entertainment, who acquired Battle Royale’s (and its sequel) North American rights, is hosting a limited theatrical run for the director’s cut of the movie. The film will not be shown in 3D, which is what was originally planned.

Both Battle Royale Parts 1 and 2 will also be available on Blu-ray & DVD on March 20th.

"Wu Xia" Chinese DVD Cover

Here at Cityonfire.com, we universally love Peter Chan’s 2011 film Wu Xia. Guest reviewer DiP gave it a 10/10; Mighty Peking Man said that if it was the kind of martial arts film Bruce Lee would make if he were still alive; while HKFanatic called it Donnie Yen’s best role since 2008′s Ip Man.

In the film, Donnie Yen plays a family man with a dark past. When two criminals wander into his town, he’s forced to raise arms once again in order to protect his family. Forensic detective Takeshi Kaneshiro is called on the scene to investigate and each clue leads him closer to uncovering Donnie’s past – but that’s the last of their worries with an army of assassins waiting in the wings.

The Weinstein Company bought the rights to Wu Xia but have yet to distribute it in the West. Over at trusted retailer DDDHouse, you can import the film on Region A Blu-ray for $23.72 or Region 3 DVD for $15.38.

Part of the reason I mention this is that over at Twitch, James Marsh has received word from Peter Chan that the Weinsteins will be releasing Wu Xia in North American theaters, most likely in May. The Weinsteins are giving the film the more generic title Dragon and, not surprisingly given their history, have cut the film to be “leaner, pacier.” Plenty of viewers have enjoyed Wu Xia just the way it is, even if the movie is not as action-packed as some of Donnie’s other work like Killzone or Flash Point. Wu Xia is a one of a kind of film; an intense character drama that combines elements of high-flying martial arts with CSI-like forensic work. Our recommendation is to see it the way Peter Chan intended it.

Johnny Depp in "Dark Shadows"

THE MOVIE: The is the big screen of the popular 60′s horror TV series, directed by Goth maestro Tim Burton and starring Johnny Depp, Helena Bonham Carter, Michelle Pfeiffer, Jackie Earle Haley, Chloe Moretz, and Eva Green. In theaters on May 11, 2012.

Updates: Hopefully, we can expect something unique from this line-up. Alice Cooper might make a cameo. Burton mainstay Danny Elfman will once again write the music. AICN has a photo of Depp in costume here. New group photo of the cast here. A different shot of Depp here. Chloe Moretz talks about working on ‘Shadows at Moviefone. Helena Bonham Carter did a horrible job explaining the appeal of the film. CBM has a new image of Johnny Depp and Michelle Pfeiffer from the film. Newest pic of Lestat, er, Depp.

BREAKING NEWS: Screenrant has two new pictures and a promotional poster for the film. Screenwriter Steven Grahame-Smith (author of the book Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter is based on) says this of the film: “The tone of the movie is soap operatic. It’s heightened. Everything is heightened and grand…There’s an absurdist element to it. It’s very funny. I don’t think people are expecting it to be as funny as it is.“

"Lockout" Theatrical Poster

THE MOVIE: AICN linked the new sci-fi action trailer produced by The Fifth Element’s Luc Besson, and co-starring Memento’s Guy Pearce and Taken’s Maggie Grace. Co-directed by James Mather and Stephen St. Leger, Lockout’s premise suggests Escape from NY meets Cowboy Bebop. IMDB has an April 20 U.S. release date for the film.

Updates: They either changed the title for international markets, or it’ll be known as MS One: Maximum Security from now on. Anyway, a new French trailer can be viewed at TheMoviebox.net. Check out the U.S. trailer here.

BREAKING NEWS: Official theatrical poster revealed.

"Gantz" International Theatrical Poster

Director: Shinsuke Sato
Writer: Hiroya Oku, Yusuke Watanabe
Cast: Kazunari Ninomiya, Ken’ichi Matsuyama, Yuriko Yoshitaka, Kanata Hongo, Natsuna Watanabe
Running Time: 130 min.

By HKFanatic

Much like “Death Note,” 2010′s “Gantz” is a two-part live-action adaptation of a popular and long-running manga/anime. While “Death Note” sticks closely to the realm of the supernatural, “Gantz” is pure science-fiction. At times it feels like a cross between “The Matrix” and “Men in Black.” The premise offers an immediate hook: right as they’re about to be flattened by a subway train, two childhood friends are transported to a starkly furnished room with a group of complete strangers. It’s there that a giant black orb explains their mission: aliens are among us and must be hunted down. Our protagonist, Kei, and his unlikely allies suit up in “X-Men”-like black leather and hit the streets to take down aliens with powerful weaponry unlike anything on this earth. “Gantz” is one of the few films that manages to deliver on its high concept with two hours of violent action and existential dilemmas, leaving the viewer hungry for Part Two.

My experience with the “Gantz” anime was limited to the first four or five episodes and I have to admit I found the live-action film to be something of an improvement. The movie tones down the more “ecchi” (perverted) elements of the anime, removing the overtly sexual content but keeping the blood ‘n gore intact. While this certainly softens the story in some regards, making Kei more likable than he was in the anime, I feel like the changes are acceptable to allow “Gantz” to reach a wider audience. In other words, Kei is no longer imagining that every girls he sees is naked – but you still get your fill of exploding aliens. I know some have called the film a “dumbing down” of the source material but I wasn’t bothered by the trade off.

For the most part, “Gantz” is a slick piece of pop entertainment with great production design and costumes, fairly decent special effects, and a convincing cast. Most of the flaws in this film can be traced back to the anime and manga: although the characters are equipped with extremely effective weapons, they have a habit of aiming their guns at an enemy and standing there, mouths open in shock or rattling off about their latest existential crisis. You can kind of get away with this storytelling crutch in an animated series but once it’s in live-action it becomes even more noticeable and plenty of reviewers have already criticized “Gantz” precisely for this  issue. However, it might not be as much of a problem if the viewer knows what to expect. Just be warned the characters of “Gantz” have a habit of crying and yelling when they could just pull a trigger and solve most of their problems.

While “Gantz” is only one part of a two-part series, it does a fairly decent job of telling a complete story. The only thing disappointing about the third act, really, is that it degenerates into an endless series of CG-infused battles. The computer effects are acceptable but not necessarily up to the standards of a Hollywood blockbusters. I suppose the nature of “Gantz’s” enemies necessitates that they be conceived with digital effects – they are aliens, after all – but I found that the first two, more humanoid opponents provided more satisfying action sequences. The last 20 minutes of “Gantz” prove to be CG overkill.

Regardless, “Gantz” is an enjoyable popcorn movie. The characters are anguished, the costumes are tight, and the aliens are out for blood. Chances are you either love these live-action anime adaptations or you’re driven nuts by how they deviate from the source material. Depending on where you stand, “Gantz” should be another satisfying entry in this particular genre, which seems to be enjoying a renaissance as of late. As for me, I’m looking forward to popping in “Gantz: Part II – Perfect Answer” as soon as I get the opportunity.

HKFanatic’s Rating: 8/10

"Life Without Principle" Chinese Poster

RELEASE DATE: May 29, 2012

Directed by Johnnie To, 2011′s Life Without Principle delves into Hong Kong’s money-obsessed culture through three characters whose destinies collide one fateful day when a loan shark gets assaulted after withdrawing $10 million from the bank. Starring Lau Ching Wan, Richie Ren and Denise Ho. Watch the trailer.

"Zorro" (1975) Japanese Theatrical Poster

THE MOVIE: There are now plans for a post-apocalyptic take on the classic swash-buckler last portrayed in movies by Antonio Banderas. X-Men special FX artist Rpin Suwannath is attached to direct Zorro Reborn. Plans are for the film to be darker than its predecessors. Although I have to say that someone already beat that company to the punch on the premise of a post-apocalyptic swordsman.

Updates: This Zorro is not to be confused with an attempted Sony reboot. Dark Horizons suggests the Sony version will either be called The Forging of Zorro or Zorro: The Legend Begins.

BREAKING NEWS: Variety, via cinemablend.com, states that Amores Perros’ Gael Garcia Bernal is now attached to star in Zorro Reborn.

"Transformers 4" Fan Made 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. Popular internet rumors suggest Jason Statham may star but that’s strictly rumor. Tentative release date set for Summer 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. Actor Jason Statham is a name still being bandied about as a possible replacement for Shia. Bay and Statham have denied the story. Moviefone reports that Bay might do the fourquel thing, if they’re willing to bite on Pain and Gain. CBM notes that Tyrese and Ken Jeong’s tweets are once again stirring rumors of Jason Statham getting the gig. Dark Horizons talked to producer Lorenzo di Bonaventura, who confirmed a new one’s in the works. Via AICN, producer Lorenzo di Bonaventura confirmed that Michael Bay will return to direct Transformers 4.

BREAKING NEWS: 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.”

"Nightfall" Chinese Theatrical Poster

Nightfall is a 2012 Hong Kong murder mystery from director Roy Chow (2009′s Aaron Kwok thriller Murderer). The film features a host of familiar faces including Nick Cheung (The Stool Pigeon), Simon Yam (Full Contact), and Michael Wong (Knock Off), as well as Shawn Dou, Janice Man, and Kay Tse. The story is about a hardened detective investigating the death of a Hong Kong celebrity. As he digs deeper, he discovers a conspiracy that challenges everything he thinks he knows about the case.

Nightfall arrives in Chinese theaters later this year. In the meantime, Beyond Hollywood has the trailer and a more detailed synopsis. Nick Cheung and Simon Yam are no slouches in the acting department so this should end up being a Hong Kong thriller to keep an eye on.

Updates: According to sources, this Nightfall promotional poster, which features Nick Cheung in a mugshot pose, led people to believe the star was arrested in real life. In preparation for the film, Nick Cheung spent half a year on physical training. Our source has posted bloody photos of Nick fighting Ken Lo.

BREAKING NEWS: Twitch has a new, full-length trailer.

"Prometheus" American Teaser Poster

THE MOVIE: Ridley Scott, director of Alien and Blade Runner, returns to the genre he helped define. With Prometheus, he creates a groundbreaking mythology, in which a team of explorers discover a clue to the origins of mankind on Earth, leading them on a thrilling journey to the darkest corners of the universe. There, they must fight a terrifying battle to save the future of the human race.

THE TRAILER: Courtesy of Apple Quicktime.

Updates: AICN has the poster. New pics via CBM and Empire. CBM got info from Filmophilia about Alien creature designer H.R. Giger’s involvement. U.S.A Today has a pic of Rapace with helmet hair. New Rapace pic, courtesy of CBM and Hero Complex. Alternative, Prometheus-style Alien (1979) trailer. Very cool. AVPgalaxy.net has some alleged spoilers leaked by actress Kate Dickie. A different type of head shot.

BREAKING NEWS: The international trailer is online.

"G.I. Joe 2: Retaliation" Teaser Poster

THE MOVIE: Despite a lukewarm reception to the first film, the G.I. Joe franchise is back with a sequel that looks to inject some much needed fresh blood into the series. At the helm is director John M. Chu, joined by series newcomers Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and Bruce Willis. In theaters on June 29, 2012.

THE TRAILER: Courtesy of Apple Quicktime.

Updates: Via Dark Horizons, early pic of the Rock as Roadblock. Will Sgt. Slaughter (And the original at that!) make an appearance in the movie? Tank you very much. CBM has a look at the Superbowl spot. Check out the international trailer.

BREAKING NEWS: ComicBookMovie reports that popular Korean actor Lee Byung-hun (A Bittersweet Life, I Saw the Devil) will have a larger role in the sequel thanks to his improved mastery of the English language. This makes us at Cityonfire.com very happy.

One of the worst teaser posters ever made.

THE MOVIE: X-Men: First Class was a surprise hit. Not surprisingly, 20th Century Fox has been quick to greenlit a sequel. The key players are back: director Matthew Vaughan, producer Bryan Singer, and writer/producer Sim Kinberg. It’s presumed that James McAvoy and Michael Fassbender will return as Professor X and Magneto, respectively. In theaters summer 2014.

Updates: Comicbookmovie.com confirms a First Class sequel is being written, but that they’re still waiting for home video sales to take it further. CBM notes that X-Men: Last Stand writer Simon Kinberg is working on the script. Dark Horizons via Comingsoon has Fassbender confirming he’s contractually obligated to do a sequel, which he believes is likely to happen soon. AICN reports that director Matthew Vaughn has signed on for the sequel and Simon Kinberg is indeed writing the script. Bryan Singer will once again produce.

BREAKING NEWS: Some quotes from writer/producer Simon Kinberg confirm that the sequel will place more of a focus on Magneto (Michael Fassbender) and his transition to the dark side as it were.

"Warriors of the Rainbow: Seediq Bale" Chinese Theatrical Poster

Warriors of the Rainbow: Seediq Bale is a John Woo-produced, massive Taiwanese epic about the Seediq tribe’s upraising against Japanese colonists some eighty years ago. It was on the short list for Best Foreign Film award at this year’s Academy Awards but did not make the cut.

Updates: The Hollywood Reporter has a closer look at Rainbow.

BREAKING NEWS: 24 Frames Per Second has a listing of the North American cities Well Go USA will release Seediq Bale in on April 27th. They are: New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, Dallas, Houston, Washington, D.C., Toronto, Vancouver, Austin, and Honolulu. Check out the trailer here.

"Beach Patrol Force: Cherry and Peach" Japanese Promotional Poster

Now this has to be the strangest trailer I’ve seen in awhile. A micro-budgeted Japanese action flick called Beach Patrol Force: Cherry and Peach is on its way. It looks to follow the exploits of two female cops in short shorts who make sure the beaches of Japanese are safe and, if the occasion calls for it, team up with local police to take down drug dealers.

Surprisingly, the trailer looks like a lot of fun and not at all as exploitative as you’d imagine. Okay, maybe a little exploitative. But still fun. Check out the trailer here.

Meanwhile, Beyond Hollywood has two posters and more info on this flick, which releases in Japan later in the year.

"Intruders" Spanish Theatrical Poster

THE MOVIE: Directed by 28 Weeks Later’s Juan Carlos Fresnadillo, Intruders is about two children separated by country who are each visited by a faceless intruder trying to possess them. Nicolás Casariego and Jaime Marques wrote the script, while Derailed’s Clive Owen, Inglorious Basterds’ Daniel Brühl, Never Let Me Go’s Ella Purnell , Pilar López de Ayala, Black Book’s Carice Van Houten, and Izán Corchero co-star.

Update: CBM has a look at the poster.

BREAKING NEWS: Youtube has the first official trailer.

Hit! Blu-ray & DVD (Olive Films)

RELEASE DATE: April 24, 2012

Olive Films presents 1973′s Hit!, directed by Iron Eagle’s Sidney J. Furie. A federal agent (Billy Dee Williams), whose daughter dies of a heroin overdose, seeks out revenge on the drug ring held responsible. Also starring Richard Pryor, Paul Hampton and a funky soundtrack by Enter the Dragon’s Lalo Schifrin.

"Unbowed" Korean Theatrical Poster

The Chosun Ilbo reports that the low-budget Korean film Unbowed is causing a box office sensation. According to the Korean Film Council, film attracted a total accumulated number of 1.4 million viewers, surpassing the 1-million mark just eight days since its release.

Unbowed is inspired by the true story of Kim Myung-ho (played by Ahn Seong-Gi), a professor who failed to get tenure by his university after he questioned the validity of a math question in its entrance exam in 1995. After years of litigation against the university, Kim lost and shot a crossbow at the judge who handled his case. Check out the trailer.

Update: If you’re in the Los Angeles area, you can see The Unbowed at CGV cinemas starting February 17th. Korean distributor CJ&EM is working to get the film released in other U.S. cities. Thanks to the Asian Media Wiki.

Dwayne Johnson

THE MOVIE: The fourth sequel in any franchise is rarely the most popular but Fast Five rocked the box office so now Vin Diesel, Paul Walker, Dwayne Johnson, and the rest of the crew are returning for Fast Six and Fast Seven. The big question is: will they film them back to back? In theaters on May 24, 2013.

Updates: Screenwriter Chris Morgan has been assigned to a fifth sequel. Apparently, they want to pull a fast one on viewers and change the sixquel to a heist movie. Twitch suggests plans are in the works to shoot F6 and F7 simultaneously and bring in Jason Statham. Also, the new location intended for the film(s) is Europe. Vin Diesel confirmed via THR that there will be two movies shot back-to-back.

BREAKING NEWS: Dwayne Johnson says they most likely won’t shoot Fast Six and Fast Seven back-to-back due to weather issues. The source seems to confirm that Fast Six will be set in Europe, with filming taking place in both the UK and Germany.

Mutant Girls Squad Blu-ray/DVD Combo (Well Go USA)

RELEASE DATE: May 22, 2012

Mutant Girls Squad (aka Fighting Girls: Legend of the Blood of the Iron Mask) is a Japanese film by Noboru Iguchi (“The Machine Girl”), Yoshihiro Nishimura (Tokyo Gore Police) and Tak Sakaguchi (“Yoroi: Samurai Zombie”). The film is about Rin, a sixteen-year-old mutant girl who meets a gang of rebel mutants who aim to take revenge on humans for persecuting their race. Check out there trailer.

"Battle of the Damned" Promotional Poster

Hot from the the 2012 Berlin Film Festival comes the new promotional poster for Dolph Lundgren’s upcoming film Battle of the Damned. The premise for this flick sounds like something a 7th grader dreamed up after binging on Mountain Dew and pixie sticks: Dolph Lundgren plays a professional soldier leading a ragtag group of rebels – and an army of robots – against the undead after a zombie outbreak wipes out civilization.

Sounds crazy but apparently it’s legit; writer/director Christopher Hatton says he’s going for a tone similar to 28 Days Later and Escape From New York. The poster certainly looks cool and claims that filming starts in June of this year but it also warns that “credits are not contractual,” leading me to believe that there’s a chance Dolph might not even star in the movie. Rest assured, Cityonfire.com will keep you posted.

Thanks to The Hollywood Reporter for the poster

Battle Beyond the Stars Blu-ray/DVD (Shout!)

For decades, Roger Corman has been synonymous with low-budget but influential genre filmmaking. Through his production house he helped iconic American directors like James Cameron and Jonathan Demme get their start. Lately distributor Shout! Factory has been re-issuing many of Corman’s out-of-print films on blu-ray and DVD. Today several of these Roger Corman Cult Classics arrive streaming on Netflix. Celebrate the man, the legend, that is Roger Corman with these key films:

Rock ‘n Roll High School (1979) – the hit rock musical that launched The Ramones into the cultural lexicon

Battle Beyond the Stars (1980) – this science-fiction epic was no doubt produced to ride the “Star Wars” craze but its story structure actually takes inspiration from Akira Kurosawa’s “Seven Samurai.” Streaming in HD

Slumber Party Massacre (1982) – this tongue-in-cheek slasher movie was helmed by acclaimed screenwriter Amy Jones (“Mystic Pizza,” “Beethoven”)

Humanoids From the Deep (1980) – this horror flick is notorious for its skin-crawling premise involving mutant fish monsters wanting to mate with land-dwelling ladies. Streaming in HD

Caged Heat (1974) – possibly the most famous film of the entire ‘women in jail’ subgenre, this movie was an early effort from “Silence of the Lambs” director Jonathan Demme

The Big Bird Cage (1972) – another movie with a ‘women in captivity’ theme, this one stars Pam Grier and arrives from “Spider Baby” and “Switchblade Sisters” director Jack Hill. Streaming in HD

Women in Cages (1971) – are you noticing a pattern yet? Subjugated women sure were a popular theme in the 70′s. Also starring Pam Grier. Streaming in HD

Grand Theft Auto (1977) – before the popular video game there was this film, about a couple on the run from the mob in a hot car, which also happens to be Ron Howard’s directorial debut

Crazy Mama (1975) – Jonathan Demme directs this kitschy ode to the 1950′s involving three outlaw women

Carnosaur (1993) – released two weeks before “Jurassic Park” hit the big screen, this low-budget cheapie cashed in on the whole dinosaur fad

Bloodfist (1989) – yes, Roger Corman even tried to produce his own “Bloodsport.” This martial arts flick starring Don “the Dragon” Wilson spawned no less than eight sequels

"Badge 373" Theatrical Poster

RELEASE DATE: April 24, 2012

Olive Films presents 1973′s Badge 373, an action thriller starring Robert Duvall. Eddie (Duvall) is a tough, no-nonsense, racist Irish cop who heads out on a one-man crusade to find out who killed his partner. Like 1971′s The French Connection, Badge 373 is based on Eddie Egan, a real life, tough-talking New York cop. Watch the trailer.

Gangs of New York Blu-ray (Miramax)

Today’s Deal on Fire is 2002′s Gangs of New York. Just think – for about the price of a McDonald’s Extra Value Meal, you can own the Blu-ray of Martin Scorsese’s award-winning gangster flick, which stars Leonardo DiCaprio and Daniel Day-Lewis. Do yourself a favor and order it (and make a peanut butter and jelly sandwich instead).

"Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles" Japanese Theatrical Poster

Variety reports that Jonathan Liebesman, director of Battle: Los Angeles and the upcoming Wrath of the Titans, is in talks to reboot a live-action version of Eastman and Laird’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles comic book.

The comic book, which first came out in 1984, has gone on to become a major pop culture franchise. Hong Kong’s Golden Harvest studios produced the first three, live-action films: 1990′s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, 1991′s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles II: The Secret of the Ooze, and 1993′s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles III. 2007′s TMNT, which was done in CGI, was the fourth and final part of the series.

"Quick" Korean Theatrical Poster

Today, Shout! Factory announced a multi-year agreement with CJ E&M, the leading film distribution and production company in Korea, to be the exclusive North American home entertainment distributor for two widely popular Korean motion pictures. Under the multi-property alliance, Shout! Factory has secured the rights to distribute the Korean 3D creature thriller Sector 7 and action-packed adventure Quick for all packaged media (DVD/Blu-ray) home entertainment releases and digital distribution in the U.S and Canada.

Is this the beginning of an endless string of Asian entertainment from Shout! Factory? Let’s hope so! Check out the trailers for Quick and Sector 7.

"The Sorcerer and the White Snake" Blu-Ray

It’s not an easy being a monk. You’ve got to abstain from earthly pleasures and stay focused on the holy path. And sometimes you’re called upon to kick demon ass. At least that’s what happens to Jet Li in The Sorcerer and the White Snake, the 2011 Chinese-language CG-infused blockbuster from acclaimed director Ching Siu Tung (Duel to the Death, Dr. Wai in the Scriptures With No Words).

The film is now available from online retailer DDDHouse on Region A Blu-ray for $22.44 and Region 3 DVD for $15.13.

The Hollywood Reporter praised the film for its “Fantastic visuals and non-stop action.” The story is based on the Chinese Legend of the White Snake, which also provided inspiration for Tsui Hark’s 1993 classic Green Snake. Production on The Sorcerer and the White Snake required so many fight scenes that Jet Li claimed it was the most exhausting shoot of his career. Check out the trailer here.

"Taken" Japanese Theatrical Poster

THE MOVIE: The plot apparently involves Liam Neeson and his wife being kidnapped while on vacation by bad guys who want revenge for the events of the first Taken. In theatres October 5, 2012.

Updates: Maggie Grace will return. AICN notes that Rade Serbedzija will be playing the villain in Taken 2. Directing duties have been passed on to Transporter 3 director Olivier Megaton. Luke Grimes has been added to the cast. Collider briefly discussed the sequel with Neeson near the end of the interview. It appears they’re halfway through production.

BREAKING NEWS: Latino Review has uploaded a video of their First Look Series, which discusses Taken 2. Beware of minor spoilers.

Lassiter DVD (Henstooth)

RELEASE DATE: April 24, 2012

Just like The Cannonball Run and High Road To China (also being released by Hen’s Tooth), 1984′s Lassiter is another U.S.-made film that Golden Harvest produced in the 1980′s. In this adventure, Tom Selleck plays a professional thief who is hired by the British law enforcement and the FBI to do a secret job. Also starring Jane Seymour, Lauren Hutton and Bob Hoskins. Check out the trailer.

Jean-Claude Van Damme

Variety via Arrow in the Head reports that the Muscles From Brussels himself, Jean Claude Van Damme, is set to star in a Lord of the Flies-style thriller with former The O.C. cast member Adam Brody (also seen in Mr. And Mrs. Smith).

The movie, titled Welcome to the Jungle, is about the employees at a design firm who end up stranded on a remote island after a corporate retreat gone wrong. It doesn’t take long for a hierarchy to form and pit the survivors at each other’s throats. Jean Claude Van Damme as a corporate raider? Could be interesting. Filming begins next month in Puerto Rico so we can only assume that Van Damme’s duties on the set of The Expendables 2 have all but wrapped.

Update: On-the-set photo of Van Damme sporting a pornstache and a leaner body.

"Pusher" Theatrical Poster

The Hollywood Reporter gives word that The Weinstein Company has acquired the rights to the remake of the cult film from Drive director Nicolas Winding Refn. The original is a thriller about a drug dealer with a large debt. Luis Prieto directed the new version of Pusher, which is expected to hit North American theaters in late 2012.

Update: The trailer is now online.

Gina Carano

Empire reports that the Haywire star is set to appear in an action thriller titled In The Blood, which will directed by Blue Crush’s John Stockwell. The film involves a Caribbean vacation gone wrong when a woman’s husband goes missing. Presuming he’s been murdered, she takes the law into her own hands and hunts down the killers single-handedly.

“This role will showcase not only Gina’s fighting skills, but also her acting abilities as her character struggles to reign in her violent past,” Stockwell tells the Hollywood Reporter.

"Sadako 3D" Japanese Theatrical Poster

The static on your TV might not just be bad reception – that evil little girl from Ringu and The Ring is back. Based on the forthcoming novel from original Ringu author Koji Suzuki, Sadako 3D is a 3D horror film continuing the tragic tale of Sadako, the long-haired ghost with a penchant for climbing out of wells. Sadako 3D hits Japanese cinemas on May 15th but for now we have a teaser trailer.

The movie looks admittedly low-budget with some rough production values and an overbearing emphasis on the 3D effect but, hey. At least the producers are updating the formula for the 21st century: this time around it’s not a video tape that kills you after seven days, it’s an internet viral video. Then again, Kiyoshi Kurosawa’s Kairo (AKA Pulse) kinda did that whole thing to perfection way back in 2001.

Thanks to 24 Frames Per Second for the scoop

Jackie Brown Blu-ray (Lionsgate)

Today’s Deal on Fire is Jackie Brown on Blu-ray for $7.99. Directed by Quentin Tarantino, this 1997 crime flick is one of Empire’s 500 Greatest Movies of All Time. Personally, I love all of Quentin Tarantino’s films, but this is the one that has the most re-watch value. While you’re at it, don’t forget about Pulp Fiction for $7.99 as well!

"Ninja the Mission Force" Promotional Poster

In the 1980s, there was this thing called the ‘ninja craze,’ and every video rental store had a martial arts section that included lots of ninja titles. MGM Home Video put out Revenge of the Ninja, Media Entertainment had 9 Deaths of the Ninja and Cannon Films did the American Ninja series.

Then you had those other ninja movies: the ones with the shiny, glittery VHS covers. They usually had a bunch of white actors (including B-movie legend, Richard Harrison) in colorful ninja uniforms. Some of the guys even wore tacky headbands that had the word “ninja” on them. The illustrated box art promised you big explosions, helicopter fights and cool looking motorcycles with rocket launchers; but when you finally got home to watch it, all you got was a sloppy, low budget, cut-and-paste movie that was so bad –  it was pure comedy. To fans of the martial arts genre, these string of ninja movies became known as the “Godrey Ho Ninja flicks.”

Kungfucinema.com reports that on February 16, the premiere of Ninja the Mission Force, a new action/comedy from Dark Maze Studios, hits the web. This new series pays homage to the wacky ninja films of director Godfrey Ho. Check out the official site for interviews with the filmmakers, as well as the hilarious, must-see trailer. They nailed it!

Oh yeah, to keep the memory of Godfrey Ho’s ‘cut-and-paste’ technique alive, they managed to splice in appearances from stars like Brandon Lee, John Travolta, Charles Bronson and Orson Welles.

"Doomsday Book" Korean Theatrical Poster

Top Korean directors Kim Jee-Woon (A Tale of Two Sisters, I Saw the Devil) and Yim Pil-Sung (Antarctic Journal, Hansel & Gretel) are collaborating on a science-fiction anthology film titled Doomsday Book. The movie will weave together three high concept stories – one directed by Jee-Woon, the next by Pil-Sung, with the two directors collaborating on the final tale – that deal with topics like robots, zombies, and the end of the world. Doomsday Book arrives in Korean theaters this March but in the meantime Beyond Hollywood has the trailer and synopsis for what promises to be an intriguing and mind-bending movie.

Update: The same trailer…now with handy English subtitles!

Thanks to Beyond Hollywood for the scoop

"Henge" Japanese Theatrical Poster

The trailer for director Hajime Ohata’s upcoming film Henge is one of the most interesting trailers I’ve seen in ages. The film is about a husband and wife who must deal with the fallout when the husband is mysterious attacked and grows a strange, insect-like appendage as a result.

As a fan of director Shinya Tsukamoto and his Tetsuo: The Iron Man films, the premise feels immediately familiar. It will be interesting to see if Hajime Ohata adds to the body horror genre in a significant way or if he just delivers a lesser imitation of Tsukamoto’s greatness. For now, count me extremely intrigued by the trailer for Henge. The film is in Japanese theaters on March 10th.

Thanks to Far East Films for the scoop

"Dangerous Liaisons" Chinese Teaser Poster

Shooting began on September 27th for Hur Jin-Ho’s Dangerous Liaisons, a Chinese/South Korean co-production based on the classic French novel Les Liaisons dangereuses by Pierre Choderlos de Laclos. It will be released in 2012 and stars Jang Dong-gun (The Warrior’s Way), Zhang Ziyi (Musa) and Cecilia Cheung (12 Nights).

Les Liaisons dangereuses has been made into feature films many times. One of the most popular takes is Stephen Frears’ Dangerous Liaisons (1988), followed by the modern day retelling Cruel Intentions (1999). South Korea even had an adaptation called Untold Scandal (2003). - Thanks to AlbertV for the tip!

Update: A teaser poster was revealed at the 62nd Berlin International Film Festival. Dangerous Liaisons is slated for release in winter 2012. Thanks to our source.

"Sector 7" Korean Theatrical Poster

Monster movie Sector 7 didn’t exactly earn glowing reviews last year but it did go on to become the highest-grossing Korean-language film of all time in China. How can you go wrong with a crew of workers trapped on an oil rig and besieged by a slimy, tentacled monster? That’s a golden premise.

Trusted retailer DDDHouse is now accepting pre-orders on the 3D Region A Blu-ray for $28.85. The disc contains the 2D version of the film so no need to fret if you don’t have a 3D television. DDDHouse also has the Region 3 DVD for only $13.08. The film releases on February 23rd.

Sector 7 stars Ha Ji-won, Ahn Sung-ki, Oh Ji-ho, Lee Han Wi, and Cha Ye Ryeon. Director Kim Ji-Hoon is hard at work on his next blockbuster, The Tower 3D. Check out the trailer for Sector 7 here.

Pulp Fiction Blu-ray (Lionsgate)

Today’s Deal on Fire is Pulp Fiction on Blu-ray for $7.99. Directed by Quentin Tarantino, this 1994 crime flick took the world by storm and its one-of-a-kind influence can still be felt 18 years later. So, what are you waiting for? Doesn’t get any cheaper than this! Check out the trailer here.

"Hindsight" Korean Theatrical Poster

Need another reason to pack up your belongings, cash a life insurance policy, and move to the Big Apple? The 10th Annual New York Korean Film Festival is fast approaching. On February 24th through the 26th, the Festival will play host to a slew of promising new Korean films.

Asian Movie Pulse has the full line-up but some of the highlights include the fast ‘n furious-looking Quick; mob love story Hindsight; period piece love triangle The Servant; and the dark mystery Moss. If you can’t make it to NYC for the festival, don’t fret: The Servant and Moss are currently streaming on Netflix Instant.

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo Blu-ray & DVD (Sony)

RELEASE DATE: March 20, 2012

Sony presents David Fincher’s 2011′s thriller, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. Based on the the novel of the same name by Stieg Larsson, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is the story of a man’s (Daniel Craig) mission to find out what has happened to a girl who has been missing for 40 years.  Check out the trailer.

"A Simple Life" Chinese Theatrical Poster

The Hollywood Reporter notes that the latest film from The Swordsman director Ann Hui has been registered for the coveted Academy Award. The premise is about New Legend of Shaolin actress’s Deanie Ip playing a long-term caretaker to a child who later grows up into a man played by Infernal Affairs’ Andy Lau. Ip won a Best Actress award at Venice this year for A Simple Life, and it opens wide in Hong Kong in March. A trailer for A Simple Life can be seen here.

Update: Asian Movie Pulse has the final poster for the film, as well as some pictures and the trailer. This isn’t the kind of Hong Kong movie we usually cover here at Cityonfire.com but word is that Andy Lau and Deanie Ip both give moving performances. A Simple Life arrives in Chinese theaters on March 8th.