[News] Nancy Wu Upset at “Food for the Slaves” PA.

[News] Nancy Wu Upset at “Food for the Slaves” PA.
Cr. - jaynestars

TVB’s production assistants are once again hit by another complaint by an artist. After Francis Ng(吳鎮宇) and Chilam Cheung (張智霖), who complained about the poor work performances of the Triumph in the Skies 2 <衝上雲宵II> PAs last year, Nancy Wu (胡定欣) is the next star to publicly voice her disappointment at a TVB production assistant.

The Food for the Slaves <食為奴> star posted a dispirited post on Monday morning, which read, “PA Gor Gor, if you needed to schedule the rundown earlier than planned, please call me. Do not just send a text message, because a text message notification would not be [loud] enough to wake up a person who was still in deep sleep! I’m late now! Mr. Taxi driver also had to take the mountain route!” The post was attached with a photo of Nancy frowning while sitting at the back of a taxi.

Filming Canceled

Two hours later, Nancy posted another complaint on her Weibo, “On my way, but… it’s raining again. [Can someone] please report about the weather situation in Nam Sang Wai?” The attached photo is a snapshot of Nancy sitting next to a frowning Stephanie Ho (何雁詩) inside a TVB van.

A few hours later, Nancy uploaded another frowning picture of herself, writing, “Off from work. Shooting was canceled. Another waste of time.”

Spring weather is marked with steamy humidity and frequent rain showers. This is not the first time in which shooting for Food for the Slaves had to be canceled due to inconvenient weather conditions.

[VOD & News] “Bu Bu Jing Qing” Releases First Trailer.

[VOD & News] “Bu Bu Jing Qing” Releases First Trailer.
Cr. - jaynestar

On March 26, Chinese Entertainment Shanghai (Tangren) released their first sneak peek trailer for their upcoming television drama, Bu Bu Jing Qing <步步惊情>, the sequel and modern retelling to their 2011 hit, Bu Bu Jing Xin <步步惊心>.

The four-minute trailer clip starts off with some reminiscing scenes from the first installment, which captures the tragic romance between lead characters, Ruoxi (Cecilia Liu) and Emperor Yongzheng (Nicky Wu). The nostalgic trailer ends with Ruoxi’s death, with Yongzheng voicing the words, “If you can’t come to my world, I’ll go to your world to find you.”

The trailer then pans to the blessing ceremony and some behind-the-scenes footage of Bu Bu Jing Qing in Tianjin, which commenced shooting earlier this month.

The trailer also provides an exclusive new look at the drama’s plot, which was kept relatively private since the serial’s cast announcements in early 2013. In the trailer, Cecilia’s character, Zhang Xiao, is revealed to be a designer who works at Zhentian Group, a large public company. The reincarnation of Yongzheng, Yin Zheng (Nicky), is the adopted son of Emperor Kangxi’s reincarnation, Kang Zhentian (Damian Lau), the Chairman of Zhentian Group.

Zheng, along with Kang’s eldest son Kang Sihan (Sun Yizhou), are both prospective heirs to the Zhentian Group. By getting herself romantically involved with the two brothers, Xiao reluctantly gets herself embroiled in the Kang family feud.
The teaser scenes also revealed Cecilia portraying a mysterious second character – Lan Lan.

Directed by Lee Kwok Lap (李国立) and produced by Karen Tsai (蔡艺侬), Bu Bu Jing Qing also stars Jiang Jingfu (蒋劲夫) as Kang Siyu, Ye Zuxin (叶祖新) as Jack, Annie Liu (劉心悠) as Ma Yiruo, and Ye Qing (叶青) as Meng Xinyi.

“Bu Bu Jing Qing” Trailer

[News] Raymond Lam is Luk Siu Fung.

[News] Raymond Lam is Luk Siu Fung.
Cr. - sg.news.yahoo

After much speculation, it was recently revealed that TVB actor Raymond Lam will play Luk Siu Fung in the upcoming mainland Chinese television adaptation drama, "Lu Xiaofeng And Hua Manlou".

Popular Asians reported that Raymond would be the sixth person to play Luk Siu Fung, the main protagonist in the self-titled wuxia novel series written by the late Gu Long, and the fifth one for a television adaptation.

The series have been adapted numerous times into films and television series, and starred various actors, ranging from Damian Lau in the 1976 TV version, Jimmy Lin in the 2000's Taiwanese version and Julian Cheung in mainland's first adaptation back in 2006.

It was alleged that Raymond, who initially denied his participation in the drama, was paid RMB 500,000 for the role. However, the actor has refused to comment on the rumour.

In related news, the drama, produced by West Coast Media, also stars actor Zhan Xiaolong as titular best friend, Fa Moon Lau. In addition, Lan Xi, Zhang Meng, Kent Cheng and Leanne Liu have also reportedly joined the project.

[News] Ruco Chan and Edwin Siu were Primary School Classmates.

[News] Ruco Chan and Edwin Siu were Primary School Classmates.
Cr. - jaynestars

Replacing Moses Chan (陳豪)’s role in upcoming grand production, Brother’s Keeper <巨輪>, Edwin Siu (蕭 正楠) has successfully jumped up to the ranks as a TVB male lead.

The 36-year-old actor will be starring alongside big names like Louise Lee (李司棋) and Linda Chung (鍾嘉欣) in the cross-millennium epic, and will be sharing ample screen time with the drama’s other male lead, Ruco Chan (陳展鵬).

Last week, Sudden Weekly magazine alleged that Edwin and Ruco did not get along very well on set due to the competition for screen time in Brother’s Keeper. The costars’ competitive nature with each other had in fact been around since their primary school days, when they attended SKH St. Clement Primary School together during the mid-1980s. The ex-classmates were said to be especially competitive when it came to sports, in which both Edwin and Ruco were involved in the school’s table tennis team.

Soon after the report was published, Edwin thanked the magazine on his Weibo, writing, “Thanks for helping us increase our exposure rate!” Ruco then replied to Edwin’s post, and wrote, “Not only has [Sudden Weekly] helped us out with the promotions, Edwin! But also with our primary school and endorsers!”

At a special function held on March 24, Ruco denied that that he was on bad terms with Edwin. “We play brothers in the drama, so we are as close as family.” Ruco was not unhappy about the rift rumors, but was glad that the rumors came after they completed the shooting of Brother’s Keeper. “If the rumors came while we were shooting it, which would negatively impact our emotions and our acting.”

Ruco assured that he and Edwin were never competitive with each other, saying, “The reports say that Edwin and I competed against sports, but Edwin rarely plays tennis table. He likes association football a lot more.”

There was, however, one thing that Ruco wished he could compete against Edwin someday. Ruco admitted that he wished he had more stage performance offers like Edwin, who has been reportedly earning at least $300,000 HKD every month from show performances alone.

[News] Jessica Hsuan and Loura Lou Face Off in Period Drama “Loving Herb”.

[News] Jessica Hsuan and Loura Lou Face Off in Period Drama “Loving Herb”.
Cr. - jaynestars

After the success of its iPartment <愛情公寓> series and other modern romantic dramas, production company China Syndication Entertainment is taking on its first period drama. Set in the era of the Republic of China, Loving Herb <愛情悠悠藥草香> (unofficial English title) will bring together Hong Kong actress Jessica Hsuan (宣萱), and mainland Chinese artists Loura Lou (婁藝瀟), Han Dong (韓棟) and Benny Qian (錢泳辰).

The story of Loving Herb revolves around six females and their intertwined quests for love and independence. Foregrounded in the story as well are the two sons of the Bai family, who are involved in the medicinal herb business. Director Jeffrey Chiang (蔣家駿), known for his fast-paced, female-oriented romantic dramas like Boy & Girl <男才女貌> and Love to Be Found Nowhere <美麗新天地>, hopes to use the characters’ stories of love and despair to give viewers a comprehensive depiction of how women lived in that particular era.

In order to remain true to the Republican China time period, the production company spared no expense when it came to the filming locations, selecting the Lu-Family Residence (盧宅) as the home of the Bai family. Located in Dongyang in Zhejiang Province, the Lu-Family Residence is an important historical and cultural site that dates back to the Ming and Qing Dynasties. The old building complex, which is under state-level protection, is often referred to as the Imperial Palace of Southern China. Its refined simplicity and grand loftiness are sure to well befit the aristocratic Bai family, as well as lend a believable historical aura to the backdrop.






Adhering to their objective of producing dramas that feature “beautiful love, beautiful scenery, and beautiful people,” China Syndication Entertainment chose Loura Lou and Jessica Hsuan as Loving Herb’s female leads. Loura, who has proven herself capable of playing a variety of roles in dramas like iPartment and Love Destiny <愛情自有天意>, will play the role of Huang Caiwei in her first Republican China-era series. The other female lead, the vicious and merciless Ma Fufang, will be portrayed by Jessica.

Bu Bu Jing Xin <步步驚心> and Swordman < 笑傲江湖> actor Han Dong will be the male lead, whose elder brother will be played by Benny Qian, an experienced period drama actor. Other actors include Ni Hongjie (倪虹潔), Jin Ming (金銘), Tong Xiaoyan (仝曉燕), and Sun Ya (孫雅), as well as veteran actors Xia Taifeng (夏台鳳), Kenneth Tsang (曾江), Yue Yueli (岳躍利), and Jia Ni (賈妮).

[Photo & News] Top 11 Most Charismatic Actors of Hong Kong.

[Photo & News] Top 11 Most Charismatic Actors of Hong Kong.
Cr. - jaynestars

Having strikingly good looks is never a negative asset, but in order to succeed in the entertainment industry, just being photogenic is not enough to make it big. In order to have the ability to attract the attentions of millions of viewers around the world, having charisma is a must.

Recently, over a hundred of artists among the Hong Kong entertainment industry participated in a poll that asked who they regard as the most charismatic actor in Hong Kong. To be seen as a best actor among the eyes of their colleagues, the actors who make it into this list are definitely the best of the best.

The top 11 from the list of most charismatic actors have been published. Andy Lau (劉德華) and Tony Leung (梁朝偉) share the top spot as the most charismatic actors in Hong Kong. Veteran actors like Chow Yun Fat (周潤發) and Sean Lau (劉青雲) also made it to the list. Even younger rising stars like Raymond Lam (林峯) was placed; Raymond was ranked even higher than hot stars like the perpetually young Aaron Kwok (郭富城) and the multi-talented Nicholas Tse (謝霆鋒)!

First Place – Andy Lau and Tony Leung

Both Andy and Tony share the number one spot for the most charismatic actor of Hong Kong, a win that surprises no one. The award-winning movie stars have been superstars since they first debuted in the industry as TVB actors in the early 1980s. Along with Michael Miu (苗僑偉), Kent Tong (湯鎮業), and Felix Wong (黃日華), Andy and Tony were part of the Five Tigers, a group of TVB’s most popular young male actors of the 1980s.

Their success in television had jump-started their historic career in the film industry. When Andy left TVB in the late 80s, he pursued a career in both film and music. Alongside record-breaking singers Jacky Cheung (張學友), Leon Lai (黎明), and Aaron Kwok (郭富城), Andy became known as one of the “Four Heavenly Kings” of the 1990s.

Tony, on the other hand, went to achieve multiple accolades in the film industry. Although Tony’s pair of electrifying eyes has melted the hearts of millions of viewers from around the world, it is Tony’s polished and compelling acting that makes him one of the most respected actors in Hong Kong cinema. Tony’s film collaborations with director Wong Kar Wai (王 家衛) are deemed as classics, and so far, no one in Hong Kong’s current film industry has won more celebrated Best Actor awards than Tony.

Third Place – Chow Yun Fat

After nearly four decades in the industry, Chow Yun Fat is still a household name to this day. Since 1986’s A Better Tomorrow < 英雄本色>, Fat Gor’s Hong Kong films are often seen as box office guarantees. The 57-year-old has also had a decent career in Hollywood, starring in worldwide box office hits such as Ang Lee’s (李安) Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon <臥虎藏龍> and Disney’s Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End. Fat Gor is also warmly known as “Superstar of the People.” Despite being one of the world’s biggest actors, Fat Gor is still a big consumer of public transportation. He is friendly to his fans, his neighbors, and will be more than happy to snap a picture with fans when he is spotted walking casually on the streets.

Fourth Place – Louis Koo and Daniel Wu

The tanned, sexy hunk looks cold and hard to approach in the outside, but Louis Koo (古 天樂) is in fact best known for his portrayals of roles that combine dry humor and wit. Like the stars above, Louis also started out at as a popular siu sang with TVB before becoming a bigger film star. Although Louis has yet to win a Best Actor honor, there is no denying that Louis is next in line to succeed the spot as the industry’s number one brother.

Also sharing the spot as number four is the beautiful Daniel Wu (吳 彥祖). Although he is known for his looks, the 38-year-old has done more to prove that having a beautiful face is not his only positive attribute. Not only is Daniel a gifted actor, he is also a doting husband, and has an undying devotion towards filmmaking. Showing an interest in working behind the scenes, Daniel and his best friend, Stephen Fung (馮德倫), established a production studio last year, releasing the financially successful Tai Chi Zero <太極1從零開始>.

Sixth Place – Francis Ng

As a TVB artist training class graduate of 1982, the 51-year-old Francis Ng (吳 鎮宇) was also Tony Leung’s classmate. Although Francis’ road to success took much longer than Tony’s, Francis has portrayed many unforgettable roles in Hong Kong television. His humorous parody portrayal of Patrick Tse (謝賢) in the 1997 TVB television drama Old Time Buddy < 難兄難弟> is still remembered today. Francis is also credited for contributing to Hong Kong’s booming aviation industry after his successful portrayal as pilot Sam Tong in the 2003 TVB drama,Triumph in the Skies <衝上雲宵>. Many aspiring pilots came knocking at the doors of flight training schools after the broadcast of the serial.

Seventh Place – Raymond Lam and Sean Lau

Raymond Lam is the youngest star on this list. The triple-threat superstar debuted under TVB’s umbrella in 1999, and has starred in many dramas since. Raymond’s success in both the film and music industry is also noteworthy. In just five years, Raymond has already performed at four sold-out solo concerts in the Hong Kong Coliseum, a feat that is not easy to achieve for many Hong Kong singers.

Also in seventh place is award-winning actor, Sean Lau. Sean does not have the best of looks, but his superb acting and charismatic stage presence is more than enough to hold the interests of many fans around the globe. Sean shot to fame after portraying Fong Chin Bok in TVB’s historic hit, The Greed of Man <大時代>, where he also met his beautiful wife, Amy Kwok (郭 藹明). Sean’s fun personality, excellent acting and love for his wife, is what makes him to be one of Hong Kong’s most favorite actors.

Ninth Place – Aaron Kwok

It did not take very long for Aaron Kwok to get famous. With his boyish charms and dancing king image, Aaron shot to prominence rather quickly in the 1990s. With a number of best-selling albums under his belt, the Heavenly King is also a music charm in the Hong Kong industry. His award-winning performances in Divergence <三岔口> and After This Our Exile <父子> has also made Aaron a box office guarantee.

Tenth Place – Michael Miu

Not only is Michael the epiphany of charisma, he is also living proof that age is just a state of mind. Michael’s smoldering good looks only gets more attractive with age. The 54-year-old actor is still regarded as the big brother of Five Tigers and occasionally meets with the other members. Although Michael’s focus is not in the film industry, his position as a top actor in Hong Kong television dramas is unwavering.

Eleventh Place – Nicholas Tse

The son of the first chok king, Patrick Tse (謝賢), Nicholas debuted in the industry at 16 years old. Although his road to stardom was rocky and turbulent, his rebellious image had contributed to the mass of new music idols in the late 1990’s. Nicholas pulled himself together very quickly after joining the film industry. His perseverance, hard work, and dedication to his family have changed him from being Hong Kong’s bad boy to Hong Kong’s best man. Nicholas is also the youngest actor to win Best Actor in the industry. Nicholas is now the owner of a billion-dollar (HKD) post-production film company.

[News] Michelle Ye may make TVB comeback.

[News] Michelle Ye may make TVB comeback.
Cr. - sg.entertainment.yahoo

Actress-turned producer Michelle Ye recently revealed that after seven years, she may be making her return to TVB.

According to TVB News World, the 33-year-old actress, who appeared in Central for the press conference for her new stage play, was asked if she would make her return to TVB.

To this, she revealed, "They (TVB) have approached me before. After all, TVB and (executive) Poon Ka Tak are my respected mentors, so if needed, I will definitely do it."

The actress, who left TVB in 2005 to pursue her acting career in films and mainland dramas, had since established her own production company and produced and starred in three dramas – "Ninth Widow", Goddess Athena" and "The Legend Of Purple Hairpin".

Meanwhile, the actress, who is venturing into an unknown territory for her first stage play, stated, "My mentor Poon Ka Tak influenced me to try my hands on stage acting. I'm really trying something new this time. I didn't start out from a performing arts school, so I don't really have much experience in this area."

She added jokingly, "They had confidence in me, so I decided to push my worries onto them!"

[News] Raymond Lam is the Next “Luk Siu Fung”.

[News] Raymond Lam is the Next “Luk Siu Fung”.
Cr. - jaynestars

Raymond Lam (林峯) will play Luk Siu Fung in the upcoming mainland Chinese television drama, Lu Xiaofeng and Hua Manlou <陆小凤与花满楼>.

Luk Siu Fung, the main protagonist in the self-titled wuxia novel series, was written by the late Gu Long (古 龍). The series have been adapted numerously into films and television series. Hong Kong’s TVB was the first company to adapt the mystery thriller novel into a television drama in 1976, which starred Damian Lau (劉松仁) as Luk Siu Fung. Alex Man (萬梓良) portrayed the character 10 years later. Jimmy Lin (林志穎) and Eric Suen (孫耀威) portrayed the character in the 2000 and 2001 Taiwanese television adaptations respectively.

Mainland China’s first adaptation of the character was in 2006, in which Chilam (張智霖) starred as Luk Siu Fung in a 20-episode television drama.

Raymond Lam’s Lu Xiaofeng and Hua Manlau will be the fifth television drama adaptation of Luk Siu Fung. Zhang Xiaolong (张晓龙) will be costarring as Luk Siu Fung’s best friend, Fa Moon Lau.

Raymond was reportedly paid 500,000 RMB for the role, a report that Raymond chose not to respond to. Raymond was seen donning Luk Siu Fung’s signature mustache on the set of the camera commencement ceremony.

Netizens noted that while the project appears to be a high-budgeted production, Raymond’s image as Luk Siu Fung is “too simple.” Other fans expressed that they are looking forward to see Luk Siu Fung coming into their television screens again.

Produced by West Coast Media, Lu Xiaofeng and Hua Manlau also stars Lan Xi (斓曦) as Sheung Koon Dan Fung, and Zhang Meng (张檬) as Ah Shun. Kent Cheng (鄭則士) and Leanne Liu (劉雪華) have also reportedly joined the project.

 

[News] Kevin Cheng Works 16 Hours a Day for “Hua Xu Yin”.

[News] Kevin Cheng Works 16 Hours a Day for “Hua Xu Yin”.
Cr. - jaynestars

Kevin Cheng’s (鄭嘉穎) stardom, and net worth, skyrocketed after starring in 2011’s Bu Bu Jing Xin < 步步惊心>. With all of these money-making opportunities coming to knock at his door, Kevin is also faced with many difficult decisions to make.

After much thought, Kevin finally decided to turn down the Bu Bu Jing Xin sequel in order to film Hua Xu Yin < 华胥引>. Being paid for as much as 350,000 RMB per episode, the Hong Kong actor will earn approximately 14 million RMB for his starring role in the fantasy drama.

But high popularity and high net worth always come at a cost. In order to finish the production before June – when the sequel of Kevin Cheng’s Ip Man <叶问> television series is to begin shooting – Kevin calculated that he must work at least 16 hours a day on the Hua Xu Yin set to reach the June deadline.

An insider revealed, “Kevin told the director that he didn’t mind working on a laborious schedule as long as production finishes by the end of May. He told the crew that the schedule rundown didn’t have to accommodate him too much.”

Kevin churned out over 40,000 RMB to hire a driver and a recreational van – which has now become Kevin’s portable home – to bring him to the Hua Xu Yin set every day. In between takes, Kevin would rest in his van and eat a quick lunch. Even Kevin’s after-lunch smoking became quick and brisk. Kevin’s break would take no longer than 20 minutes.

Kevin to Return to TVB

Although Kevin is now focusing his career in mainland China, he is still under TVB’s management. A source disclosed that TVB executive, Virginia Lok (樂易玲), has been busy planning for Kevin’s return to TVB at the end of the year.

Kevin’s successful career was carefully cultivated by TVB and Virginia Lok. When she notified him that she was expecting him to return soon, Kevin “immediately said yes” and assured that he would not be accepting any mainland dramas at the end of the year to make room for his TVB schedule, the source claimed.

[Photo & News] “Bu Bu Jing Qing” Unleashes 4 New Character Posters.

[Photo & News]   “Bu Bu Jing Qing” Unleashes 4 New Character Posters.
Cr. - jaynestars

Although not much is known about the production of the highly anticipated Bu Bu Jing Qing <步步惊情>, Tangren continues to build the hype for the Bu Bu Jing Xin <步步惊心> modern sequel with the release of four new character posters.

Two weeks ago, Tangren released its first set of character posters, which included Cecilia Liu (刘诗诗) as protagonist Zhang Xiao, Nicky Wu (吳奇隆) as Xiao’s love interest Yin Zheng, Damian Lau (劉松仁) as Kang Holdings CEO Kang Zhentian, Sun Yizhou (孙艺洲) as Kang’s eldest son Kang Sihan, Jiang Jingfu (蔣勁夫) as second son Kang Siyu, Ye Zuxin (叶祖新) as Zheng’s subordinate Jack, and Sean Chen (陈翔) as Xiao’s boyfriend, Huang Di.

While the last batch of poster releases featured the drama’s main male characters, this week’s poster unveiling gives us a quick look at four new female characters. The new set of posters feature Annie Liu (劉心悠) as Annie, Ye Qing (叶青) as Ye Yifan, Yico Tseng (曾轶可) as Ling Dang, and Elaine Cai (蔡 姣) as Mo Xiaohe. Yico Tseng’s transformation as an androgynous rocker has also generated much heated discussion at online forums.

Bu Bu Jing Qing, a spiritual sequel to Bu Bu Jing Xin, takes place against the backdrop of modern-day Shanghai, amidst the world of business politics. Zhang Xiao, a white-collar worker, is hired to work at Zhentian Internet Group by chance and meets the business magnate Yin Zheng, falling in love with him.
Bu Bu Jing Qing commenced filming in Tianjin on March 2. Shooting is expected to be completed by June 2013.

 

 

 

[News] Raymond Lam and Michelle Ye’s “Loved in the Purple” to Air on TVB Overseas Channels.

[News] Raymond Lam and Michelle Ye’s “Loved in the Purple” to Air on TVB Overseas Channels.
Cr. - jaynestars

Michelle Ye’s (葉璇) production studio teased fans with the releasing of some character posters and introductions for her upcoming romantic period drama, Loved in the Purple <紫釵奇緣>. The Tang Dynasty drama, a loose adaptation of the traditional Chinese opera The Purple Hairpin <紫釵記>, stars Raymond Lam (林峯), Cheng Cheng (程诚), Tammy Chen (陳怡蓉), and Michelle Ye herself.

The released photos include some never-before-seen set pictures, character posters, a synopsis of the story, character introductions, and an afterword introducing Michelle Ye, her production studio, and her other television drama works.

Loved in the Purple is the third television drama to be produced by Michelle Ye’s studio. Previous projects include The Ninth Widow <第九个寡妇> and Athena <雅典娜女神>, both of which have garnered notable popularity in mainland China.

TVB Purchases “Loved in the Purple” Overseas Broadcast Rights

After winning the crown in the 1999 Miss Chinese International Pageant, Michelle debuted as an actress in Hong Kong under TVB’s management. In 2005, at the height of her popularity and career, Michelle chose not to renew her TVB contract and left the station for a career in film. Michelle’s surprising and dramatic departure from her mother station led the media to speculate that she was not getting along with TVB management, a rumor Michelle debunked years later.

Loved in the Purple is arguably a product of Michelle’s goodwill relationship with TVB. Aside from casting popular TVB siu sang, Raymond Lam, as the male lead, Michelle also invited former TVB contracted actresses, Kingdom Yuen (苑瓊丹) and Elaine Jin (金燕玲), to star in supporting roles. Former TVB scriptwriter Ka Wai Nam (賈偉南), best known for his work in 1984’s The Duke of Mount Deer <鹿鼎記>, 1989’s Song Bird <天涯歌女>, 2009’s Beyond the Realm of Conscience <宮心計>, and others, was hired to helm Loved in the Purple’sscreenplay.

TVB has also recently purchased the exclusive overseas broadcasting rights for Loved in the Purple. The station also hired Michelle and Raymond to dub their voices in the Cantonese version.

The Purple Hairpin, originally a tale written for Kunqu, was later popularized into a Cantonese opera by playwright Tang Ti Sheng (唐滌生) in the late 1950’s. Due to Loved in the Purple’s familiar source material, as well as the drama’s fast-paced editing, grand costumes, and familiar actors, the drama has attracted the interest of many Hong Kong viewers.

[News] “Sergeant Tabloid” Airing in Hong Kong on March 11.

[News] “Sergeant Tabloid” Airing in Hong Kong on March 11.
Cr. -  jaynestars

It came as a surprise when TVB decided to first release the high-budget Sergeant Tabloid <女警愛作戰> overseas before airing it in Hong Kong. Starring Niki Chow (周麗淇) in her first role as a police officer and Michael Tse (謝 天華) as Niki’s unconventional partner in crime, the romantic comedy cop drama generated much publicity in Hong Kong during its first few months of production.

Niki and Michael’s refreshing pairing, as well as the serial’s exhilarating new take on femininity and policewomen, made the serial into one of the most anticipated TVB dramas of 2012.

Sergeant Tabloid’s positive overseas reception just gave TVB more of a reason to air it in Hong Kong. Impressed by its positive reception from overseas audiences, producer Nelson Cheung (張 乾文) announced last summer that not only will the serial get a release in Hong Kong, TVB will also be looking into developing a sequel if Sergeant Tabloid becomes a commercial success in the region.

A “revamped” Sergeant Tabloid, with extra action sequences, improved graphics, and a new soundtrack, will premiere in Hong Kong’s Jade channel this Monday, March 11.
Producer Cheung stated, “The new scenes are filmed according to the response from our overseas audiences. Everything will be re-edited, and previous deleted scenes will be added.”

Niki Chow and Michael Tse were invited to record the drama’s theme song, “The Center Point” <中心點>, which will be included in its opening theme video. Overseas versions of Sergeant Tabloid only had an opening credit video with theme music.

  

Synopsis

Sergeant Tabloid tells the story of Lui Fei Hap (Niki Chow), a sergeant from the Emergency Unit of the Hong Kong Police Force. Already in her thirties and having gone through numerous empty love relationships in the past, she was positive that her current boyfriend, Tung Siu Leung (guest star Vincent Wong 王浩信) will be the one for her. But she is let down in love once again after discovering that her perfect man turned out to be a wanted drug baron.

A1 (Michael Tse), a highly competitive and ambitious tabloid reporter, decides to publish her unfortunate story, angering Fei Hap. They cross paths in the most unexpected ways, and though the two regard each other as mortal enemies, there is no denying that the unlikely duo has chemistry whenever they are together.

Fei Hap is reluctant to start a new relationship with her subordinate, the handsome and much younger Prince (Matthew Ko 高鈞賢). Little does she expect that her unyielding new superior, Madam Kill (Mandy Wong 黃智雯), also has an interest in him.

Incorporated with a comedic twist, the 25-episode cop drama will cover many major criminal cases. Some of the positively-received side plots among the show are A1 and Fei Hap’s undercover work in a male prostitution den and a haunted apartment mystery.

The new Hong Kong version also includes an explosive episode that will feature guest stars Evergreen Mak (麥長青) and Macy Chan (陳 美詩). Portraying a pair of drug traffickers, the couple wreaks havoc in the city, sending the Hong Kong Police Force into a confusing frenzy. Evergreen and Macy’s episode will be exclusive to the Hong Kong broadcast.

Oceane Zhu (朱璇), William Chak (翟威廉), Koni Lui (呂慧儀), Benz Hui (許紹雄), and Grace Wong (王君馨) also star in the serial.

[Photo & News] “Bu Bu Jing Qing” Character Stills Released.

[Photo & News] “Bu Bu Jing Qing” Character Stills Released.
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Since the filming of Bu Bu Jing Qing <步步惊情>, also dubbed as the modern sequel to Bu Bu Jing Xin <步步惊心>, started on March 2, Chinese Entertainment Shanghai has kept the filming details under tight wraps.

Aside from several blurry onset photos which were leaked online in the last three days and a short synopsis regarding the office drama circulating, there was little information available to satisfy eager fans who have waited for the sequel to film for the last two years.

On March 5, Chinese Entertainment Shanghai released the first set of character stills for Bu Bu Jing Qing. Included were photos of returning cast members, Cecilia Liu (刘诗诗), Nicky Wu (吴奇隆), Damian Lau (刘松仁), and Ye Zuxin (叶祖). New additions of Sun Yizhou (孫藝洲), Jiang Jingfu (蔣勁夫), and Sean Chen (陳翔) lend fresh faces to the drama.

One of the poster captions read, “If one day you were to leave here, I will go to your world to find you,” referring to the continuation of the love story between Cecilia and Nicky in the modern era.

Currently in a management dispute with Chinese Entertainment Shanghai, Lin Gengxin (林更新) was reported to have been invited to appear in the sequel. However, it is unclear whether Lin Gengxin will be filming Bu Bu Jing Xin as he was not featured in the released character stills.

Filming in Tianjin, Bu Bu Jing Qing is expected to complete shooting by June 2013.

[News] Sheren Tang Battled Depression While Filming “Beauty at War”.

[News] Sheren Tang Battled Depression While Filming “Beauty at War”.
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Even for a veteran actress like Sheren Tang (鄧萃雯), the hardships of filming may sometimes be too much, causing stress and emotional problems. Sheren admitted battling depression while filming Beauty at War <金枝慾孽-貳> last year.

March 2 marked Sheren’s 47^th birthday. Instead of a wild party, she chose to spend a quiet day with close friends and family. On Sunday, reporters followed her from her apartment at Symphony Bay, Sai Kung to her church at Causeway Bay, and wished her a belated birthday after she got out of her car. She replied, “My birthday is over. Another birthday means another year older!”

Dressed solemnly in dark-colored clothing from head to toe, reporters asked if she is suffering from mood disorder. Sheren smiled and said, “It has been a while ago. Why did you only receive news now?” Continuing, she said, “I’ve not gone through anything like this before. But I’m much better now, thank you. ”

The Toll of Late Nights and Change of Scripts

Two-time TV Queen, Sheren revealed that the unplanned change of scripts as well as the overnight filming caused her undue stress while filming Beauty at War last year, leading to her mood disorders.

However, when filming wrapped up, Sheren felt the burden lifted and felt better almost immediately. Stressing that she has fully recovered now, she said she is ready to go back to work after a long break she has taken after filming Beauty at War. Sheren will be shuttling between filming in China and promoting Beauty at War in Hong Kong, since the drama is scheduled to be aired on April 22.

Always known to be curt to the media, Sheren asked reporters to leave her alone when she discovered that they had been following her all day, including waiting for her while she had a meal with fellow actress, Kelly Yao (姚煒). Sheren said, “I will have an evangelistic service where the reporters can raise their hands and ask me any question, including my boring life and why I used to always give a sour face to the media.” Not long after, she and Kelly went separate ways.

In other related news, Sheren’s ex-beau, Joe Tay (鄭敬基) is back in Hong Kong. Spotted in a café in Causeway Bay two nights ago, rumor has it that he wants to go back to acting again.

Bowie Lam Reveals Sheren Tang Had Cried on Set

Last year was not the first time that Sheren had suffered extreme pressure while filming on set. Bowie Lam, who had partnered with Sheren in 2004′s War and Beauty, revealed that Sheren had cried on set once.

“Since the lines were very hard, with names of many Chinese herbs, we had more than 40 outtakes one time. One time, I watched a playback scene with Sheren, I heard her crying from afar. It turns out that she thinks that she did not act out the scene well enough.”

Since leaving TVB, Bowie has been filming in mainland China. Bowie revealed that he will be primarily filming movies this year.

[News] Sun Yizhou and Sean Chen Spotted on Set of “Bu Bu Jing Qing”.

[News] Sun Yizhou and Sean Chen Spotted on Set of “Bu Bu Jing Qing”.
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Above: Sean Chen and Sun Yizhou are rumored to have joined the cast of “Bu Bu Jing Qing”.

News about Bu Bu Jing Qing <步步驚情>, the modern-era reboot of the popular time-traveling drama Bu Bu Jing Xin <步步驚心>, has been relatively low-key, but the enthusiasm of fans has not been dampened in the slightest. On March 2, when filming began in Tianjin, a crew member posted a photograph of the set.

Although many of the people in the picture were facing their backs to the camera, sharp-eyed netizens immediately spotted mainland Chinese actor Sun Yizhou (孫藝洲) and singer/actor Sean Chen (陳翔), leading fans to speculate whether they would be joining the cast.

It was previously rumored that Sun Yizhou, who rose to popularity in the iPartment <愛情公寓> series, would be playing the second male lead, Kang Sihan, who vies with “Fourth prince” Yin Zheng (Nicky Wu 吳奇隆) for the affections of female lead Zhang Xiao (Cecilia Liu 劉詩詩). His appearance on set seems to have confirmed this rumor, although Sun Yizhou declined interviews regarding his exact role in Bu Bu Jing Qing.

A netizen also recently revealed a photo of Cecilia Liu and Sean Chen filming a scene together, stating that Sean would play the role of her ex-boyfriend. Sean placed fifth overall in the 2010 Super Boys <快樂男聲>, a national singing contest broadcast on Hunan Satellite Television, the TV station that aired Bu Bu Jing Xin in 2011.

In the past two years, Sean has garnered success and approval not only for his music, but also for his appearances in movies and dramas. Although his role in Bu Bu Jing Qing will likely be very minor, fans are still excited at the possibility. His manager, however, said she had not heard the news that he would be participating in the drama.

Production company Tangren has chosen not to reveal the cast list until it has been finalized, but there have been rumors that mainland Chinese actor Jiang Jingfu (蔣勁夫), known for his role in Xuan Yuan Sword 3: Scar in the Sky <軒轅劍之天之痕>, will play Sun Yizhou’s younger brother, Kang Siyu. Mainland Chinese singer Yico Zeng (曾軼可), a participant in the Super Girls <超級女聲> singing competition in 2009, may join the team as well. Nevertheless, she was not seen in the set photo, and her manager said she was uncertain about the details.

[News] “Bu Bu Jing Qing” Begins Shooting in Tianjin.

[News] “Bu Bu Jing Qing” Begins Shooting in Tianjin.
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Above: Cecilia Liu and Ye Zuxin in “Bu Bu Jing Qing”.

Bu Bu Jing Qing <步步惊情>, the highly anticipated modern sequel to the hit time-traveling serial Bu Bu Jing Xin <步步惊心>, officially began shooting in Tianjin, China on March 2. Starring original cast members Cecilia Liu (刘诗诗) and Nicky Wu (吳奇隆), Bu Bu Jing Qinq chronicles the life of white-collar worker Zhang Xiao, who is stuck in the midst of an internal power struggle between two high executives at a large-scale internet company.

Both “Tenth Prince” Ye Zuxin (叶祖新) and Annie Liu (劉心悠) are returning to star in major roles. On the other hand, “Fourteenth Prince” Lin Gengxin (林更新), who is currently entangled in a dispute with Bu Bu Jing Qing’s production company Tangren, will not be taking part in the reboot.

Currently filming for fantasy drama Hua Xu Yin <华胥引>, both “Eighth Prince” Kevin Cheng (鄭嘉穎) and “Thirteenth Prince” Yuan Hong (袁弘) will be unable to commit to shooting for Bu Bu Jing Qing full time. However, both actors are currently negotiating to appear in a few episodes of Bu Bu Jing Qing as billed guest stars.

On March 2, a crew member from the Bu Bu Jing Qing Tianjin set shared a photo of Cecilia and Zuxin filming a scene in an office on Weibo, making it one of the most widespread photos to currently circulate on the social media site.

On the same day, Bu Bu Jing Qing producer, Karen Tsoi (蔡 艺侬), posted a quote from the drama on her Weibo, which read, “If you are to leave this place one day, I will go to your world to find you.” The post had nearly 25,000 reblogs by fans.

Stoking fans’ excitement even further, Yuan Hong reblogged the post and wrote, “If I am to leave this world, I will happen to bring you along the way.” Cecilia reblogged Yuan Hong’s post and wrote, “If you come to my world, I will bring along Tequila.”

Currently in Dalian to finish up the last final scenes of the espionage drama Severe Winter <寒冬>, Nicky Wu will not be able to begin shooting for Bu Bu Jing Qing until March 10. Coincidentally, March 10 will be Cecilia’s 26^th birthday.

[News] “Bu Bu Jing Xin 2” to Film on March 2.

[News] “Bu Bu Jing Xin 2” to Film on March 2.
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Above: Cecilia Liu will star in the sequel to “Bu Bu Jing Xin”.

The immensely popular time-traveling drama Bu Bu Jing Xin <步步驚心> recently released an alternate ending, in which the modern version of “Fourth Prince” (Nicky Wu 吳奇隆) is revealed to be the driver of the car that crashed into Zhang Xiao (Cecilia Liu 劉詩詩) and sent her back to the Qing Dynasty as “Ruoxi.” In the wake of this new ending, a Tangren staff member also confirmed that Bu Bu Jing Qing <步步驚情>, the highly anticipated modern-era reboot, is scheduled to begin filming in Tianjin on March 2.

Bu Bu Jing Qing will tell the story of businesswoman Zhang Xiao, who enters the workforce of a large-scale company but initially finds herself ostracized in the workplace. To her surprise, she gains the attention of her boss, Yin Zheng, setting off sparks of love from both sides. The kind and considerate Kang Sihan, however, also enters her world, and Zhang Xiao is forced into the center of the two men’s furious trade war as a result.

In a recent interview, Tangren producer Karen Tsai (蔡藝儂) revealed that although Bu Bu Jing Qing will integrate elements of business competition, the main plot will still revolve around love. She also added that the love story would not be of the “so-called sadomasochistic” type.

Ever since Nicky Wu, Cecilia Liu, “Tenth Prince” Ye Zuxin (葉祖新), and “Kangxi” Damian Lau (劉松仁) were confirmed to appear in Bu Bu Jing Qing, netizens have been wildly deliberating over the rest of the lineup. While it has been confirmed that “Eighth Prince” Kevin Cheng (鄭嘉穎) will not participate due to scheduling conflicts, no official news has been heard about “Fourteenth Prince” Lin Gengxin (林更新), who is currently mired in a dispute with his management company, Tangren. It has also been rumored that mainland Chinese actor Sun Yizhou (孫藝洲), known for his role in the iPartment <愛情公寓> series, may be joining the team as well. As always, Tangren insists on remaining tight-lipped and said that they will announce the entire cast list when it is finalized.
- See more at: http://www.jaynestars.com/tv-dramas/bu-bu-jing-xin-2-to-film-on-march-2/#sthash.h48vcKtR.dpuf

[News] “The Hippocratic Crush 2″ Blessing Ceremony.

[News] “The Hippocratic Crush 2″ Blessing Ceremony.
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The sequel to last year’s highly successful, The Hippocratic Crush , started filming earlier. The sequel reunites the original cast and continues the love arcs of the doctors, while adding Lawrence Ng (吳啟華), Tracy Chu (朱千雪), and Eliza Sam (岑麗香) to the drama. Kenneth Ma (馬國明), Him Law (羅仲謙), Tavia Yeung (楊怡), and the cast were at the blessing ceremony for The Hippocratic Crush 2 on February 28.

Kenneth was teased for his appealing bachelor image, in which female costars have been reported to fall under his mesmerizing spell. The role of “Dr. Cheung Yat Kin” has made Kenneth Ma into a highly desirable Diamond Bachelor on the market. Last year’s Miss Hong Kong, Carat Cheung (張名雅), openly admitted that she idolized Kenneth.

Tavia Yeung Only Has Eyes for Him Law

There is no chance that Tavia will fall for Kenneth, since boyfriend, Him Law will be there to monitor her on the set of The Hippocratic Crush 2. Tavia said, “Then I will have less chance to be part of the promotional news.”

Asked whether Kenneth or Him was a better catch, Tavia said, “It doesn’t matter. Both of them are very handsome. They have many points in common.” She said that she will not easily give in to temptation while in a relationship. Asked if she was afraid Him would cheat, Tavia said, “It doesn’t matter!”

Kenneth Ma is Not Interested in Natalie Tong

Recent Hong Kong tabloids also blazed headlines that Kenneth has now become a double-timing player, by dating Natalie Tong (崔建邦) and Eliza Sam at the same time. Although Kenneth had attended a group barbecue, in which Eliza was also present, he may face stiff competition against Eliza’s numerous male admirers. Not taking the recent news seriously, Kenneth just laughed over speculations of his love life.

Kenneth and Natalie’s friendship date back to 2010′s A Fistful of Stances <鐵馬尋橋>, when they grew close on set. Their relationship rumors grew when Kenneth celebrated his 39th birthday with Natalie and their friends. Although Kenneth claimed that he regarded Natalie as only a younger sister, their romantic rumors failed to stop.

Finally, Kenneth said, “I’m friends with Amigo Chui (崔建邦). I will not pursue my friend’s girlfriend; otherwise it’ll be very awkward.”

Lawrence Ng Praises Tracy Chu

Lawrence Ng and Tracy Chu portray a romantic couple in The Hippocratic Crush 2. Lawrence praised the newcomer for her performance while Tracy thanked Lawrence for helping her prepare for filming.

Tracy also denied reports of a rivalry with Jacqueline Wong (黃心穎) due to Tracy being more promoted after last year’s Miss Hong Kong pageant.

[News] “Hua Xu Yin” Director Defends Casting Kevin Cheng.

[News] “Hua Xu Yin” Director Defends Casting Kevin Cheng.
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The television adaptation of mainland China’s national best-selling novel, Hua Xu Yin <华胥引>, is currently shooting in Zhejiang’s Xiangshan County. Starring Kevin Cheng (鄭嘉穎), Yuan Hong (袁弘), and Jiang Xin (蒋欣), Hua Xu Yin is a tragic fantasy drama that tells the story of a fallen princess who creates beautiful dreams for people in exchange for their lives.

Lee Tat Chiu (李達超), the award-winning action choreographer for Bodyguards and Assassins <十月圍城>, has recently been announced to direct Hua Xu Yin, his directorial debut. Some of Lee’s best known works include the 2003 Hong Kong film Colour of the Truth <黑白森林>, which won Lee a nomination at the 40th Golden Horse Awards for best action choreography. Lee’s work in 2009’s Bodyguards and Assassins won him an award for best action choreography at the 29th Hong Kong Film Award, a win that was shared with Stephen Tung (董瑋). Along with Yuen Woo Ping (袁和平), Lee also worked on Hollywood’s The Matrix film franchise.

Lee is very happy to be able to have a chance to direct Hua Xu Yin as his debut. He gushed at the crew’s professionalism, and expressed that he is impressed at the crew’s dedication and love for their craft.

In regards to fans’ disappointment that the 40-year-old Kevin Cheng was cast as the young Mo Yan, a character in his early twenties, Lee explained, “Television dramas and novels are always different from each other. Take Legend of Concubine Zhen Huan <甄嬛傳> for example. In the novel, the male lead was in his twenties, while in the television adaptation, he was in his forties. Only a mature and composed male lead would be able to control the intrigue and struggles of his everyday life, and can be heedful about the cunning officials and concubines that live with him. In such a setting, I don’t think a young man in his early twenties will able to handle it!”

Lee added, “Similarly, Hua Xu Yin’s Mo Yan is not just a gentle and romantic man. He is also a talented leader, and someone who is able to stand up as a leading figure amidst a world of chaos and power struggle. Again, I don’t think this is something that a 20-year-old boy would be able to do. Kevin Cheng is an excellent actor who can use his eyes to express one’s conflicted inner turmoil, and I believe he will do the role justice!”

Hua Xu Yin is an adaptation of the best-selling novel of the same name by Tang Qi Gong Zi (唐七公子), which was published in January 2011. The adaptation is a joint production of Ciwen Media, Tianjin Beifang Film Group, and Tianjin Coastal International Industry.

 

[News] Ben Wong Leads in “Food for the Slaves” After 16 Year Wait.

[News] Ben Wong Leads in “Food for the Slaves” After 16 Year Wait.
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After waiting for 16 years, Ben Wong (黃智賢) is once again leading a TVB drama. Due to Raymond Lam (林峯) declining to film Food for the Slaves <食為奴>, 45-year-old Ben Wong stepped in for the role of Emperor Yongzheng. At the costume fitting yesterday, Ben has already shaven his head and will cherish the opportunity.

In an earlier sales presentation filmed for Food for the Slaves, Raymond Lam, Ron Ng (吳卓羲), and Fala Chen ( 陳法拉) had appeared in the video clip. Due to hectic filming schedules, the featured actors are now replaced by Ben Wong, Wong Cho Lam (王祖藍), and Joey Meng (萬綺雯).

After starring in A Kindred Spirit <真情> and attaining high recognition, Ben Wong’s former leading role was in 1997′s Triumph Over Evil <真命天師>. His screen time in TVB dramas slipped in the following years, prompting Ben to leave TVB for better pay. Ben returned to TVB in 2004 and appeared in minor roles, having to prove himself for the last 9 years before the company decided to cast him as lead once again.

Ben looked forward to generating new sparks with recent audience favorite, Wong Cho Lam, and is unafraid that viewers will compare their performances.

Although Cho Lam’s Inbound Troubles <老表，你好嘢!> was a critical and ratings success, he will not be involved in developing the script for Food for the Slaves. Cho Lam joked, “Haven’t I been scolded enough already? This time, I will only act.”

Joey Meng will portray a 25-year-old Lu Siniang in the drama. “Don’t say I’m a middle-aged woman anymore!”
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