TVB News World - Asian Entertainment News Daily

The big TV war is predicted to start next year, TVB does not dare to underestimate their competitors. Lately, TVB has been putting a lot more thought into their dramas. Drama production heads Tommy Leung and Catherine Tsang are racking their brains to get good castings. It was understood Tommy secretly contacted Esther Kwan to discuss her comeback. In order to increase the chances of success, Tommy tailored a script for her and she'll be carrying the series from beginning to end with old partner Bobby Au Yeung. This classic pairing is going to reunite in a 30 episode story about a curse of dying three times. Other cast members includes Ben Wong and Pierre Ngo.

Producer Chong Wai Kin admits he has already contacted Esther Kwan: "We have already discussed the story with her. It is a thousand year love story set from the Song dynasty to the 1950s-1960s era and then back to modern times. The female lead has a curse where she dies three times in her lover's arms. When we first came up with this concept, we wanted Bobby and Esther to make it happen. Firstly, it has been many years since they collaborated in a series and secondly the roles are very suitable for them. Of course I hope to collaborate with them and I'm very confident they could create sparks again, but we have to resolve the technology issues first before the series can be confirmed." Was it because there is only one Siu Sang and one FaDan in the entire series that attracted Esther to make this comeback? "They will be leading the series from beginning to end, but there still has to be other artists. The setting is also very important. To make the 1950s-1960s setting more realistic, we will be heading over to shoot in Foshan's new filming studio."

Esther accepted an interview over the phone, she expressed: "You all found out about the news so fast! TVB has indeed contacted me, but it's really preliminary. I heard the story is pretty special and I really like it myself. (They're using Bobby to make you come back?) This old partner is truly captivating. After working with him on Armed Reaction, I haven't been a pair with him in a while, even in The Legendary Four Aces, I was with Nick [Cheung] and we weren't a pair. It has already been over 10 years since we collaborated. Of course it's important to have a good co-star, after all we both know each other's styles and there is no need to spend time trying to develop chemistry. It's more comforting like this. I really hope to collaborate with him too, but it is still in the preliminary phase and nothing is confirmed yet."

As the series is dominated by 'One Siu Sang One FaDan' , Esther said: "There are other artists too, a thousand year love story is quite attractive. Actually TVB has approached me before, but because the roles didn't really match me, I didn't accept them. (You had always loved acting, does your craving ever start acting up?) I rarely watch TV series, but sometimes I do have a craving to act again. After all, in the past I could play several different roles within a year, but now I'm still just one character after so many years." Esther's daughter Brittany is already 6 years old, will Nick be looking after her while she gets back into work? "No, Nick is working too, so if I really do shoot this series, I will have to find a babysitter. She's older now, so it's not as difficult because she's more independent and not as attached. It should be ok."

Bobby Tries Convincing Too

Bobby finally has a chance to reunite with Esther and he also anticipates for this to actually happen. He reveals he personally called Nick, he joked: "I called Nick and told him to let his wife come back out and act again. Let her collaborate with me, no need to be afraid of rumors, it's better than working with Benny Chan." Then Bobby added: "Actually its rare to find a female co-star who can match me. We really haven't been in something together for many years. Earlier when she got married and had her daughter, there wasn't any other choice, but now her daughter is older, she can have some freedom. She can take some time out and satisfy her craving for acting. Esther doesn't just want to be a housewife, she wants to enjoy working too."

Husband Nick Cheung Supports

Since Esther got married and had her daughter, she focused entirely on her family. Since she came back for TVB series Seasons of Fate three years ago, she turned down several offers and hasn't been in any series recently. Regarding this, Nick laughed: "I know she talked to TVB. Whether she films it or not, she can make the decision. I won't lock her up at home, if there is a good script and co-stars, then I will definitely support her. Although the family really needs her, I'm still willing to let her get back into acting again. Also, our daughter is older now. As for myself, my schedule is pretty full."

Source: Mingpao Weekly, HKChannel
Translated by: aZnangel @ AsianEU Forum

Yesterday Raymond Lam, Joey Yung, Vincy Chan, Sherman Chung and Adason Lo attended a press conference and announced they will be holding a concert in Macau on October 1st. Earlier Raymond was spotted at the supermarket and coincidentally met ShuQi there, but at the time he was frightened and quickly left, Raymond explained it's not because he thought she was 'young ShuQi' Mavis Pan: "I didn't see ShuQi that day. It was only when reporters mentioned it that I found out."

Also, he expressed he has to start promoting for his new series Highs and Lows, but the series hasn't aired yet and there are already so many rumors flying around. He smiled and said it's helping with the series promotions: "I'm used to the rumors, just think of it as promotion." Joey expressed she hopes to duet with Raymond at the concert, but joked if there was a hot dance with him as well, it would be even better.

Sherman was asked of how she sees the National's Education system? She said: "Each individual has their own perspectives. I hope there will be more communication between the government and the citizens. Vincy said: "I hope they all just talk about it. The students' strike is just to express their views. I hope this issue is resolved as soon as possible." As students are still on the hunger strike, Joey hopes they look after their health and does not hope to see them trying solve problems through a strike.

Source: Oriental Daily
Translated by: aZnangel @ AsianEU Forum

Leanne Li and Kenneth Ma were models for an event hosted by Prince Jewellery & Watch. Leanne appeared in a red low-cut dress, looking very sexy. She thanked reporters for the compliments. When asked if she owns a property in HK? She said: "I have over 6 million dollars worth of diamonds and an expensive watch on me now, I can buy several houses!" She then sighed and said the housing prices in HK are too high. Although she can't afford it yet, she still needs to get one.

When reporters teased she can ask boyfriend Wong Cho Lam to go back with her to Canada and live there? She smiled sweetly: "If I like, he will like too. (Isn't it suppose to be a woman follows where ever her husband goes?) I respect him. When the time comes, I'll have two families." She said there are no plans of buying a home with her boyfriend, but she praised Cho Lam is currently working very hard to earn enough money to buy a property and for marriage. When asked if her boyfriend has a home, then she will marry him? She denied: "I'm not looking to see if he has property or not, but it's more stable to earn enough money for a property while still young and there's a sense of security." She said her dream house is located overseas with a garden in it. It feels so heartwarming.

Kenneth Ma waiting to be a homeowner

Also, Kenneth had on an expensive watch valued over HK$1 million, he was so nervous that his hands was shaking. He laughed and said he is a watch lover, but its more practical to buy homes: "The most expensive watch I own is worth 5 figures! But I won't invest on watches, its more practical to invest in homes. I still haven't bought a home yet, still saving up and waiting for the prices to lower." He also reveals he hopes to buy a 1,400 square feet home, enough for a family of four to live in and another home for his 'love nest'. Tavia Yeung recently bought a big house? At first, he blurted out: "I think so..." But he later changed his answer: "If its true, congrats to her. Buying a home is not like buying clothes. You have to be very careful, buying a home is just like choosing a wife, it's a lifetime. (When will you choose the right wife?) I'm still picking, many of the women in TVB City already have boyfriends."

Source: Oriental Daily
Translated by: aZnangel @ AsianEU Forum

Sonija Kwok, Sunny Chan, Tracy Ip, Raymond Wong, Katy Kung and Patrick Tang attended the costume fitting for TVB new series Record of the Fifth Day Opening. This is Sonija's comeback since her pregnancy, she was in great shape. She frankly expressed she is ready to launch both physically and mentally. This time she plays a 'Big Sister' role: "I haven't done a series in this time period, it's very beautiful and I have heavy screen time in the series. I play a Big Sister, the person in charge. The story is focused on my useless family, I'm the only one responsible to do things. (Just like Miss Nine from No Regrets?) Well not really! But she has wisdom (Miss your daughter?) I'll see her every day. I hope to go for boy next year Two is enough." Also, Sunny Chan was on break for a year to look after his son, who has a speech disorder. He frankly expressed his son is making improvements and can go to mainstream schools.

Tracy Ip plays a villain, a woman who is desperate to marry and money-hungry. She is an expert at cheating others' family property and will have several seducing scenes, such as her upcoming one with Matt Yeung.

Source: Oriental Daily
Translated by: aZnangel @ AsianEU Forum

Last night, Mandy Wong and Niki Chow were shooting for TVB new series A Good Heart Goes Haywire. In the series, Mandy plays a prostitute, but really sacrificed herself for the role! Dressed in a short skirt and a wig, she was shooting a scene outside of the nightclub, where she gets drugged with chloroform and then gets dragged to the dark alley to be raped. She was eventually rescued by Niki, who plays a policewoman. As the majority of the crew on the set were men, Mandy was worried of exposure and so she had shorts underneath her skirt.

For this rape scene, Mandy got actual injuries all over her and she had to shoot the scene in a dirty alley full of mosquitoes and bugs. When the actor who played the rapist dragged her to the alley and because she was struggling to escape, she got bruises on her thigh after completing the scene. Also, Mandy's whole body was itching from all the mosquito and bug bites.

However, this scene wasn't as annoying as her other slapping scene. In the slapping scene, the director initially said to fake the slap, but the result didn't turn out too good. In the end, Mandy bravely volunteered to get slapped for real. She told her 'rapist' to just slap her for real. Mandy said: "Slapping for real is much more realistic! But my face started swelling up! I need to get some ice on it when I get back." For this prostitute role, Mandy gave everything she got, she said watching many movies was part of her homework: "In the series, I always have to lie and I make up my own slang." As for Niki, she had a scene where she jumps off the bridge, but she's still recovering from a leg injury and had to get a stunts double to do the scene for her.

Source: Oriental Daily
Translated by: aZnangel @ AsianEU Forum

In the recent year, TVB has been repeatedly trying to get secret weapons to rescue the company. Recently they successfully convinced golden producer Lee Tim Shing to stay with them and there are plans to start shooting Rosy Business 3 (RB3) next February. However, according to the latest reports, RB3 will still keep Wayne Lai as the lead actor, but due to issues with the contract and schedule conflicts, lead actress Sheren Tang is going to get replaced by Myolie Wu.

Yesterday reporters contacted Lee Tim Shing, he admitted: "I discussed with the scriptwriter, we plan to change the cast and it may not be such a bad thing! We can confirm that only Wayne Lai will stay in the cast, but the lead actress won't be Sheren Tang. Myolie Wu is the FaDan I want to use the most." Lee Tim Shing continued and explained the three reasons why he made this decision.

(1) Why is there only Wayne Lai left?

"I'm just using this Rosy Business franchise. The story will not be related to the previous two installments. Aside from the lead actor, the other artists including Sheren, Susan Tse and Pierre Ngo won't be participating in this installment. Although earlier Susan and Pierre expressed they are interested in participating, but I'm starting this series next February. I checked already, they don't have time on their schedules. It is basically impossible to keep them."

Then why is he only keeping Wayne Lai? "Wayne remains on the list. If even he's not in the cast, then nothing will be the same anymore. Without anyone from the previous installments, then how can this be called Rosy Business?"

(2) Why is Sheren Tang out?

"Sheren's schedule may not fit with the filming schedule. I actually never thought of keeping the same lead actor and actress. (Many Netizens are commenting that they won't watch the series if the lead actress is someone different!) Yes, Sheren and Wayne are indeed a good match, but the more they match, the more trouble it is for us writers. I already wrote the most beautiful love story for them, which ended in the last two installments. I don't have anything else, everything is already out there! Their first love story didn't seem to have ended, so I made their love even stronger in the second one. In this third one, how else could their love be like? I pulled my hair out and I still can't think of a good story!"

"In RB3, I want to come up with a love story for younger people, and give off a different feeling from the previous two. This time, the scriptwriter and I hope to do something related to first love. Everybody's first love was a romantic one, very passionate. I think this will be refreshing and give off a new feeling. RB3's lead actor and actress will no longer be against each other, I want to use a new combination. Myolie Wu + Wayne Lai + young Siu Sang Edwin Siu. The three of them will develop a romantic relationship in the great era.

(3) Why choose Myolie Wu?

Although Myolie was crowned TVB's TV Queen last year and she's currently being heavily promoted, but some people still have doubts on her acting, saying that it's exaggerated. Tim Gor said: "Myolie is the FaDan I want to use the most! Actually her acting had always been really good, but there are some areas that nobody has given her advice on. Once she gets on the set, she will exert herself a little too much. In RB3, I will help her put some of that away, help her restrain a little and then her acting will be a lot more beautiful. It's hard to schedule Myolie, this is our first collaboration, I hope I'll be able to show a different Myolie with different character. She already voiced her opinion to me. She's willing to take on this opportunity and really looks forward to our collaboration."

As for Wayne Lai, he won't be able to continue on with his good partner Sheren Tang. He said: "Myolie and Sheren are both good artists. If Tim Gor wants to use Myolie, perhaps he thinks we match! I won't be disappointed and it's not like we can collaborate for life. We will have to work with other artists eventually. Actually I don't mind at all."

Sheren responded over the phone: "February and March, my schedule is already full. TVB didn't contact me about RB3, Tim Gor didn't call me either. I'm not sure if they want me to be part of it? I don't know anything!"

Source: ndddaily, HKChannel
Translated by: aZnangel @ AsianEU Forum

The film DUE WEST: OUR SEXUAL JOURNEY (YUT LO HEUNG SAI). Jeana Ho Pui Yu, Gregory Wong Chung Hiu, Justin Cheung Kin Sing yesterday promoted in West Kowloon. The actresses Angelica Zhang (Cheung Woon Nga) and Jeana dressed up and did not forget to trade jabs. They were obviously at odds. Jeana said that she did not have any scene with Cheung Woon Nga and only saw her a few times. She thought her face was pretty long. As for her career line, she said, "She is long everywhere, just like her face." She said that later she will try to enjoy the film in 3D. Will her boyfriend attend the premiere? She said that her boyfriend has not replied yet. Will she continue to be sexy at her next promotion? She said that every time she wanted to show everyone her pretty image.

Cheung Woon Nga said that she has prepared what she would wear at the premiere for a long time. She also said that DUE was a very important category III film in her life. Speaking of Jeana referring to her face as long, she said, "I agree, my parents feel I am very ugly. Tell her to refer me to her plastic surgeon." Did she know that Jeana had plastic surgery? She said, "She has nowhere normal, if I had plastic surgery I could make it pretty. However Jeana is pretty, but I live for my parents." Speaking of Jeana stealing the spotlight, she said that she would only do her part. Did she feel Jeana just attack her personally? She immediately said, "I don't understand why everyone has to trade jabs back and forth. I feel she has no friend. It's normal for her not to like me."

Source: Takungpao, Mingpao, on.cc
Translated by: hktopten

TVB yesterday held its September birthday party for its artists. Attendees included Michelle Yim (Mai Shuet), Tracey Ip Chui Chui and Shuet Nei.

Speaking of her film contract signing with Emperor, Mai Shuet said that it was still in negotiation. This time she joined Emperor, did she want to compete with Wai Ying Hung for the Best Actress award? Mai Shuet said, "I too really want to win the Best Actress award, but Siu Hung is very hard working. She too has a lot of opportunities to win the Best Actress award."

Source: Takungpao, Mingpao
Translated by: hktopten

Mini Yang Mi recently worked on a cover shoot for the wedding monthly magazine DARIZI. She admitted that she indeed was lucky and fortunate. In recent years, Yang Mi participated in many topical television series, rapidly rose to fame and joined the film industry. This year she will have eight movies on the way. WU DANG would even be her first martial art film.

Fighting in a movie for the first time, Yang Mi although has suffered she displayed her usual optimistic spirit. She would treat hardship as challenge. She said, "Fight scenes to me are very hard. In the process I had to complete many highly difficult stunts and work with many professional martial art actors, which added to my pressure." She remembered that the shoot took place during the winter. She had to wear many layers of warm clothing. Yet after she shot from the morning to the afternoon, all of her clothing inside was soaked as she was covered in sweat. After trying fight scenes, Yang Mi looked forward to keep making action films because it had a great sense of satisfaction.

Romantically, she admitted that before meeting her boyfriend Harwick Lau Hoi Wai she was not certain about what type of guy she liked. Actually she never truly ran into one. She also did not know what type of person would be appropriate for her. Yang Mi said, "Before meeting him, I never thought that I would find a Hong Kong actor. Perhaps, destiny is something that is this hard to explain. When I ran into him, it could be said as a type of luck because I luckily discovered his positive points before others. Hoi Wai had a lot of filial piety. He worked very seriously. Yet I like him not just because he is an excellent person. We get along very well."

Source: Takungpao, Mingpao
Translated by: hktopten

Jacky Cheung Hok Yau, Taiwan actress Chu Chih-Ying, producer Johnnie To Kei Fung and director Shu Kei yesterday attended the film YUT GOR FUK JAP GOO SI (A COMPLICATED STORY) production start ceremony. Hok Yau worked on a slap scene with a "pregnant" Chu Chih-Ying. Luckily Hok Yau was only slapped for two takes. Hok Yau said, this time he was only guest starring. Why did he take the role? He said that director Shu Kei asked him. Because back then he gave him his start in the film industry, he agreed right away. This time he even worked for free.

Was Hok Yau not making other movies? He said, "Don't say that, don't drive me away." As for the national education response, Hok Yau said, "At First I didn't know about the national and moral education courses, so I neither agreed nor disagreed. Now I feel we should sit down and talk about it. If we can't talk in there, we can talk out here. It doesn't mind, don't make it so tough on everyone." When asked whether because his daughter went to an international school he was not too worried? He said that his daughter lately has been singing the national anthem at school or other nation's songs. He felt that people should be patriotic. "If education takes an objective approach, it has no problem."

In addition, speaking of TVB's intention of working with other media outlets on a music award show that will have one vote per person for the male and female singer categories, Hok Yau said that a general election might become a fan competition. When a song was well sung but unpopular it was still useless. Hok Yau a long time ago already suggested unifying the music award shows. Yesterday he still said, "A joint award has no problem but needs to be representative. Like the U.S. has many music award shows, but one or two were more representative." TVB seemed to have taken the first step. He admitted that someone speaking up was better than no one, the rules could be set again. Chu Chih-Ying said that she was very nervous when she just slapped Hok Yau. Her hand was shaking. Hok Yau was her idol and she has always admired him.

To Kei Fung who was much thinner said that he has already losing weight for a few weeks. He said, "Wa Jai (Andy Lau) gave me a weight loss diet. I had to quit carbohydrate and only ate meat, the goal was to lost over ten pounds." To Kei Fung was like a teacher and a friend to Sammi Cheng Sau Man. Has he received Sammi's wedding invitation? He said, "You ask her." Would he finish THE BLIND DETECTIVE (MAN TAM) earlier so Sammi would have time to wed? He said, "If she wants to, I wouldn't stop her. Wait until the movie is finished then she can." Will he try to finish BLIND as soon as possible? He joked, as fast as he was able to.

To Kei Fung said that marriage was between two people. Even parents could not force it. Yet Sammi was a woman and needed a companion. Would Sammi after BLIND wed around October? To Kei Fung said that he did not know. Would he prepare a gift? He said, "Too soon, if it's ten years later, the gift would be rotten."

Source: Takungpao, Mingpao, on.cc
Translated by: hktopten

Lam Man Chung and Derek Kwok Chi Kin joined directed the black light comedy film PO LEI LO JO. In the film Susan Shaw Yam Yam played Ah Chung's wife and wore a maid costume. Ah Chung said that he this time invested in the film for fun and in the film he was Subhuti (Grape Grandpa Buddha)'s little broker Po Lei Lo Jo (F U Grandpa Buddha). The other female lead is Johnson Lee Sze Jit's rumored girlfriend Naomi who will be in a nurse costume and perform CPR on him. Will he and Shaw Yam Yam have any intimate scene? Ah Chung said, "Inevitably, ultimately the subject messes around. Many actors will guest star and play a role."

Source: Mingpao, on.cc
Translated by: hktopten

The ever busy Andy Lau really knew to arrange his time, as he was currently busy with the shooting of his new film, but he still managed to jet off to London to show support to the Mainland China and Hong Kong athletes at 2012 London Paralympic Games.

Being the 2012 London Paralympic Games Chinese athletes Love Ambassador, Andy specially took some time off to show his support as he went to the Paralympics Goalball competition to visit the Chinese female Paralympics Goalball team, it was a a surprise for them as they took photographs with him.

Andy also visited the archery team to communicate and took photographs with them.

Andy went to support and watch Chinese athlete Chen Rui Zhuang at the female fencing B quarter-final. Chen managed to defeat her Russia opponent and enter the last 4.

In addition, Andy also went to show support to Hong Kong athlete Tam Chik Sum at the male wheelchair Fencing B final. However, Tam lose out to his Brazilian opponent with the score of 14:15, getting second spot.

Source: Ming Pao, 2012.qq.com, news.sznews.com, sports.people.com, sports.titan24.com, news.sohu.com, sports.sina.com.cn
Translated by: AndyLauSounds

Mimi Lo and Power Chan's little 'dragon girl' is due in October. To remember the joyous pregnancy moments, the couple decided to do a photo shoot. Mimi is already 8 months pregnant and changed into several different bikinis for the photo shoot. Despite her bulging stomach, she still wore 3-inch heels for the shoot.

It was seen Mimi went from an A-Cup to a C-Cup, turning her into a feast for the eyes, even her husband Power said surprised: "Wah! Wife, you have such big breasts!" This is Mimi's most sexiest appearance ever, but for big stomach and chest, she does not mind to make this sacrifice: "I had a two cup size increase, of course I don't mind looking sexy! Also my belly weighs about 30 pounds, so I no longer need to worry about my belly fat or trying to push in my stomach. It's great!"

As BRIDE's photographer (Arden) is responsible for the couple's photo shoot. He praised how professional Mimi was. She was able to completely give off the feeling of liveliness and happiness. She spent 10 hours taking pictures and didn't even show a sign of exhaustion, she just complained she was really hungry. Mimi laughed: "That's how pregnant women are. I eat a lot of food now because my stomach can hold it all! (Isn't the 3-inch heels dangerous?) I just want to look beautiful! There was nothing dangerous that happened, we safely completed the shoot! (Will you get a C-section in October?) I'm afraid of being in pain for long periods, so I decided to get a C-section."

As Mimi is very pleased with the photos, she will be choosing one to use as the photo book's cover. She also said she recorded most of her songs in her new album: "My album is scheduled to release at the end of the year, if suitable, I could use some of these photos!"

Source: Oriental Daily
Translated by: aZnangel @ AsianEU Forum

Lee Tim Sing: "I am just using the 'Rosy Business' franchise again. The story has no relations to the previous two installments".

Apart from the male lead, other members of the main cast, including Sheren Tang, Susan Tse, Ngo Ka Nin, etc. will not be in it.

Lee Tim Sing: "For 'Rosy III', I want to write a young people's love story. This time, the scriptwriters and I want to write about a first love. Every first love is very romantic and very thrilling. I think that new inspirations can come from this. I want to use a new group: Myolie Wu, Wayne Lai, and young siu sang Edwin Siu. The three of them will develop a romantic storyline under the setting of the Great Era".

Lee Tim Sing: "Myolie is the fa dan I want the most! Actually, her acting has always been quite good, but there are some areas in which no one has pointed out to her. Once on set, her 'expending effort' becomes a little too much. In 'Rosy III', I will help her restrain a bit...if a little more implicit, acting will look a lot better".

Lee Tim Sing: "It's very difficult to book Myolie's schedule in advance. This time is our first collaboration. Hope that, in my hands, Myolie will have a different colouration. She already expressed to me that she is very willing and anticipating this time's collaboration".

Source: nddaily
Translated by: hyn5 @ 幸而城 Fortunate City

Last night, Joey Yung, Raymond Lam, William Chan and Mag Lam held a Metro radio concert. When Joey performed The Foggy Love (霧裡看花), she said emotionally: "The song said as long as you like it, then you don't have to care about what others think. This is something I learned after turning 30. As long as it's right, I be persistent." Her comment appears to be referring to her relationship with Wilfred Lau, in which the public does not support. She later explained in an interview: "Life is a journey. Trying new things is experience." It was said her boss Albert Yeung is planning to start a new film and cast her with Wilfred? She said: "If it's going to make one, I'm like poison to the box office. He should cast a Film King to balance it out." When speaking of the box office poison, she can't get away mentioning Eason Chan: "If he says he's number two, no one dares to say their number one. If he's willing to, next year we can shoot a movie together. Two negatives makes a positive, poison attacking poison!"

Mainland singer Ma Aiwun bashes Raymond Lam as a 'Playboy Film King' and his series/movies are no good. In response to this, Raymond expressed with a black face: "First, don't play me. Don't blame me for everything. I want to be a Film King too. I never heard of her name before, but I have seen the report. (Do you feel innocent?) I just don't think it is necessary to keep talking about it, I don't know her."

This is Mag Lam's first performance since she lost her voice, and even teared up on stage. During the interview, her voice turned into a 'chicken voice'. She frankly expressed she hasn't recovered yet: "If I can do it this time, it can encourage me to recover faster. After this performance, I'm going to take a break."

Source: Oriental Daily
Translated by: aZnangel @ AsianEU Forum

Yesterday William So revealed on Weibo that RicaCorp Mortgage Agency took pictures of his entire house and published it on some real estate magazine without his consent. Rica Corp did not have any sincerity to resolve the issue and even lied to conceal their fault. William finally decided to seek legal assistance from his lawyer. He expressed the incident involves a property he owns in Pok Fu Lam. "I wanted to rent out my home and had three real estate companies help me do it. However, on the contract it was written clearly that I just want to rent the home and there could only be advertisements in writing. I never thought Rica Corp would publish all of my pictures to advertise on some magazine. They also wrote I wanted to sell my home for HK$18 million. That is completely the opposite of what was said in the contract. I am not selling my home. It is misleading!"

William expressed he asked the company for an apology, but they were unwilling to face the problem. I had no other choice but to take legal action. If I don't get a reasonable explanation, I plan to file a complaint with the Estate Agents Authority.

Reporters contacted Rica Corp Mortgage Agency, the company's spokesperson from public relations expressed: "There was miscommunication between Rica Corp and the magazine. We are currently working hard with them to find a solution."

Source: Mingpao
Translated by: aZnangel @ AsianEU Forum

Yesterday Wayne Lai was recording for TVB game show All Star World Exam. Even with makeup, Wayne still couldn't hide the huge bags under his eyes. He smiled and said he's currently re-watching Rosy Business and thinks he was younger back then. The last two years felt like its been 10 years for him. He joked: "Success comes with a consequence. Someone told me to cut the bags under my eyes, but shots are really painful. I think if I sleep earlier and eat less salty foods, it will get better. I also have a skincare sponsor." Asked if he'll get botox? He said: "I definitely won't. My face is going to get all stiff after the shots! Its really fake, I can't accept it!"

Also, it was said TVB plans to let the audience vote for TV King and Queen this year? Wayne said that's an interesting idea, "Miss HK was used as an experiment, but I think should have two. One should be based on the judges and the other from voting. (If its all based on voting, Raymond Lam's going to win it all!) Not surprising! He has so many fans."

Source: Oriental Daily
Translated by: aZnangel @ AsianEU Forum

The Federation of Hong Kong Filmmakers president Ng See Yuen, Baptist University professor Cheuk Pak Tong and the Sil-Metropole representative Stephen Shin yesterday attended the Baptist University "Hong Kong Film New Power Project" press conference in hopes of promoting Hong Kong film development and cultivation of a generation of film workers. This time the project even landed support from veteran directors Benny Chan Muk Sing, Dante Lam Chiu Yin, Wilson Yip Wai Shun, Alan Mak Siu Fai, Felix Chong Man Keung and others as professional consultants.

Ng See Yuen said that he will present a recommendation report to the government in hopes of the government adding 40% of fund allocation from the original 4 million to around 7 million to make a movie. Only this way will new comers be able to make movies. Ng See Yuen said, "Now with 4 million it is very hard to make a commercial film, if it won't be able to be released at the cinema it will only be a wasted opportunity." He said that on the 11th he will along with over 20 directors head to Beijing for some film bureau forums to discuss how to put Hong Kong film excellence in use and how to fend off Hollywood films.

Ng See Yuen also mentioned that Hong Kong film right now is mainly shot in the Mainland and workers are mostly Mainlanders. In another 5 or 10 years there will be no Hong Kong film workers, thus they need to cultivate even more new comers. He also said that he had the intention to suggest set construction locations in Hong Kong to the government, like constructing some old Hong Kong street sets for the convenience of filmmakers location shoots. In addition, speaking of the national education noises, Ng See Yuen said that for now he would not express an opinion because the issue was heated. He would like both sides to take a step back. Anything could come to a compromise. He said, "Actually we filmmakers usually don't want to participate in politics. The film industry already has many difficulties. Hopefully this matter will be resolved soon."

Source: Takungpao, Mingpao, on.cc
Translated by: hktopten

Simon Yam Tat Wa, Paulyn Sun Kai Kwan, Irene Wan Bik Ha, Damien Lau Chung Yun, Michelle Yim (Mai Shuet) and others last night attended the "Emperor Motion Picture Night" contract signing ceremony and to officially join the Emperor Motion Picture artist management department. Already a mother of two Sun Kai Kwan was in great shape. When asked why she returned to film, she said that she has always passionately loved film. Now her sons are eight and four and gradually growing up, she was able to return to film.

Sun Kai Kwan said that her older son even asked her for a guest starring role. Would she accept a mother and son collaboration? She honestly said that she could, and her son liked to perform very much. Sun Kai Kwan admitted that currently she was a single mother, but she was in contact with the children's father. They were good friends. She said, "Actually being a mother was already tough. Although I will be making movies, I will be able to take care of the children. Right now they are studying in Hong Kong." Did she need to make milk money? She said that she hoped to be able to make some money; at the same time she said that she had no suitor now but welcomed all men to pursue her.

Wai Ying Hung said that this time the salary was very reasonable. She hoped to be able to work with Yam Tat Wa, Nick Cheung Ka Fai, Nicholas Tse Ting Fung and others. She joked that this time she tagged along with Yam Tat Wa to join Emperor. She too would like to make even more good movies and win more awards. As for Gordon Liu (Lau Ka Fai)'s illness, she admitted that she was aware but as far as she knew he is much better now and is able to walk. Speaking of his children unable to see him, she knew that he had some problems at home but was not at liberty to ask him about it.

Yam Tat Wa rarely signed with a film company. He said he did this time because Albert Yeung Sau Sing was very passionate about movies and signing with a company could save a lot of time that he would be able to spend more of with his family and on exercising. He said that he also looked forward to working with Sister Siu Hung. Wan Bik Ha said that this time was destiny. She said that after marriage she has been focused on her family life, but actually she loved making movies very much. She said that she was not afraid that she would not be able to take care of her family as well and did not need to ask her husband.

Source: Takungpao, Mingpao, on.cc
Translated by: hktopten

Mia Chen Jing Yi two nights ago attended the film LAN KWAI FONG 2 (HEI OI YEH PO 2) celebration. As a mother Mia stated her objection against promoting national education. She wore black for two days in a row and put a black ribbon on her daughter for school in support of the protest. Mia said that it was very unfortunate that her daughter's elementary school will promote national education but was afraid that switching school after school just started would affect her daughter's mental and physical health development. "My original intention was for my daughter who just started elementary school to study at a local school and learn Hong Kong culture, now I am very worried. I can only pay close attention to the education content. I too want my children to have their own space for independent thinking, but I can't do anything. I can only explain when I watch the news with the children, and instill all the concept of history like a story to my children. As for switching school, I will consider that later."

Liu Yuqi dressed up to celebrate the film heading toward 10 million. She said that she was repaying the audience. She said that later she will keep making Hong Kong films but stated that she would not be sexy like pseudo models. Did she resist being classified as a pseudo model? "No! Hong Kong pseudo models are very pretty and very sexy, but they are also numerous. Over the past few years I have been making movies, I am a professional actor."

Source: Mingpao, on.cc
Translated by: hktopten

Dramas

Divas In Distress - 巴不得媽媽… (EPS 01-05) - 30 PTS

King Maker - 造王者 (EPS 11-15) - 29 PTS

Come Home Love - 回 。愛家 (EPS 76-80) - 25 PTS

Variety Shows

All Star World Exam - 環遊世界明星賽 (EP 07) - 25 PTS
Big Fun South East Asia - 千奇百趣東南亞 (WEEKDAYS) - 24 PTS
Wai Yin Anniversary - 慧妍愛心傾城30年 (SUNDAY) - 22 PTS (Peaking at 25 PTS)
Lets Play With Our Food - 皆大歡喜之溏心風暴 (EP 05) - 22 PTS
Tasting Life - 珍情品味 (EP 06) - 19 PTS

(CSM Media Research: 1 point represents 64,070 viewers)

Source: CSM (by wacow)
Translated by: aZnangel @ AsianEU Forum

Because Raymond Lam dated Mainland actress Mavis Pan, nicknamed 'young ShuQi', a huge scandal broke out. The other night, Raymond bumps into the real ShuQi at a supermarket in Central.

In the recent year, Raymond has been surrounded by rumor after rumor. Following his bed photo scandal with 'young ShuQi' Mavis Pan, he was rumored with Mainland actresses Yuqi Liu and Karena Ng. However, the other night at 6pm, Raymond was shopping in Central without a girl, he was spotted at a store in a black baseball cap and T-shirt. As soon as Raymond got into the store, he went straight to the Japanese beverage section. When the female worker saw Raymond, she quickly went up to greet him. ShuQi was coincidentally in the store and shopping alone as well. She was seen hidden in a flowery hat talking on the phone the entire time.

A half an hour later, Raymond was in line waiting to pay, while ShuQi was also in line. He was looking around and suddenly discovers ShuQi standing there. Raymond was very shocked and frightened, wonder if its because he thought she was Mavis. When reporters started taking pictures, he was even more surprised: "Wah! You guys are everywhere!" Reporters asked if ShuQi frightened him so much, he felt lost and didn't know what he's saying? He said: "I'm just buying some healthy foods, but yeah...well it's not that healthy either. I got some flat cakes too."

Source: Oriental Daily
Translated by: aZnangel @ AsianEU Forum

Since Sonija Kwok's daughter Kylie is already 3 months old, she is ready to make her comeback in TVB new series Record of the Fifth Day Opening. Yesterday Sonija was back at TVB City for the costume fitting.

Recently a magazine reported Sonija has to bear the responsibility to support the family because her husband's income isn't high enough. Yesterday Sonija responded on Weibo, she stressed there is nothing she lacks in life. "In this world, there are many people and things that are worthy of our appreciation. Humans have feelings and money can't be used to weight everything. I realized that the value this 'magazine' brings out can honestly worry people. At this stage, I have a very pleasant life and there is nothing I lack. I have a family, I have a daughter and I hope to make progress in my career. My reality is very different from the magazine's imaginations."

Source: Mingpao
Translated by: aZnangel @ AsianEU Forum

TVB's "One Vote Per Person" at the Miss Hong Kong 2012 final turned into the laughing stock of the city. However, TVB still hasn't given up on the idea of public voting. This year, not only does TVB plan to let the audience vote for TV King and Queen, there are also plans to do the same with "My Favorite Male and Female Singer" at the JSG music awards.

In 2009, TVB had royalty disputes with HRKIA "Big 4" record labels (Universal, Warner, EMI and Sony Music). Thereafter, each year at the JSG Best Ten Music Awards Presentation, everything turned gloomy with only the same few singers getting the awards. Also traditionally the 'Four Station Best Song Award' decided by TVB, RTHK, CRHK and Metro was canceled two years ago. Earlier TVB and Big 4 tried to talk peace, but failed (*TN: In 2011, there was an agreement that TVB could use Big 4's songs/music videos until 2014. Related Article). It was understood, TVB saw that without the Big 4 singers, such as Eason Chan, Hacken Lee and Kelly Chen, the award ceremony became unattractive, so the company came up with the best of both worlds. TVB hopes to extend the rope and do a joint music awards ceremony with the other three stations (CRHK, RTHK and Metro) and proposed to follow the Miss HK "One Vote Per Person", allowing everyone in HK to vote for their favorite Pop King and Queen.

According to the news, on the day TVB had the meeting with the other three stations, it was suggested the joint award ceremony will happen in 2013. To strengthen the music awards representation, it is best to have one complete award ceremony, so TVB boldly asked the other stations to cancel their award ceremonies, including Chik Chak 903 Ultimate Song Chart Awards, Metro Hits Music Awards and RTHK's Top Ten Gold Song Awards. TVB will also cancel their JSG Best Ten Music Awards.

RTHK supports, CRHK & Metro oppose

In regards to TVB's proposal, RTHK strongly supported the idea because RTHK's production budget is limited and if there is a joint award ceremony, they could save money and labor that is used to produce their annual music awards. However, Metro and CRHK were against the idea. Especially for Metro, they get the most heated response at their annual music awards because practically all singers get an award. Firstly, there won't be any losses for them and secondly, they can take in more commercials. If JSG is canceled, Metro has no intention to cancel their music awards. CRHK is worried the professional judgement piece may be missing if only the audience decides who the winners are. It was understood CRHK and Metro already have consensus in private, and will not cancel their own music awards, but are still willing to do a joint music awards with TVB and allow audience to vote.

CRHK CEO (Stephen Chan) said they aren't opposing, but the rules, regulations and details must be clearly laid out: "Earlier when TVB made the suggestion, we all discussed it at the meeting, but there is no consensus yet. CRHK's Chik Chak 903 Music Awards will definitely continue on. After all, in our standpoint we do not oppose of this idea, it is actually quite creative."

Singers' Responses

Joey Yung: If its true, that's a good thing. The value of music awards would be even higher and better cherished. However, each station has their own mechanism, I understand it cannot be easily done.

Miriam Yeung: Doesn't matter, getting awards is just gonna make something perfect even more perfect.

Kelly Chen: That would be the best, no need to have so many award ceremonies and all the confusion.

Eason Chan: I am part of the music industry, if I have a song in the charts, I will participate in the award ceremonies. I don't have an opinion, just hope to do my best. No matter if there is going to be one joint music awards, or several award ceremonies, to me it is all just as important.

G.E.M: I really hope to have an official and authoritative music awards ceremony. Just like the Grammy Awards, with such good representation, then that would be the best.

Leo Ku: Of course I support. Actually many years ago, I always said I support Jacky's suggestion to have one award ceremony.

Source: Apple Daily
Translated by: aZnangel @ AsianEU Forum

Yesterday morning, Bosco Wong and Niki Chow were shooting Kowloon Tong for TVB new series A Good Heart Goes Haywire. Then later in the afternoon, Bosco was a guest on Jamie Chik's show Tasting Life and her husband visited them on the set. Since Bosco and Myolie Wu broke up, he has lost a lot of weight. He now looks like he has a big head. When asked if he contacted Myolie? He said: "No, I just got back two days ago. (Myolie bought a mansion?) That's good, she hasn't moved yet, but I haven't bumped into her."

It was rumored Bosco has been madly SMSing Myolie trying to patch things up with her, but he denied: "I SMS her sometimes, just friends sending greetings. (Home alone coping with the love injuries?) Don't exaggerate it. It's not the end of the world." He also said it is all fate, whether if they could reconcile or not. Michael was asked if he has comforted Bosco? He laughed: "Bosco is free now, no need to make calls and report what he's doing! When fate comes, they may be able to be together again."

In the scene he was shooting with Niki, it was about them visiting Ha Ping at the elders home. Bosco reveals he has kiss scenes with Niki because they're a couple in the series, but does not know when they are going to shoot it. Reporters teased that the two have coincidentally fallen out of love and are single again, will there be a chance of them developing a relationship? Bosco said: "There shouldn't be anything, we collaborated before. We're actually not that familiar, but we're friends. It's nothing." Niki laughed: "You think it's that easy? I'm very professional!" Bosco was asked if he's giving Niki back to Kevin Cheng? He said: "I didn't say anything."

Niki didn't think Bosco severely lost weight and she hasn't followed his news. When asked if she pays more attention to Kevin? Niki said: "Nonsense!" Lately Bosco easily gets rumors, is she afraid she'll get involved too? She said: "It's my business too? No, I'm not part of it. There shouldn't be any rumors and it's not our first collaborate. (You are both coincidentally back to being single?) Work is work. I won't be looking for someone here. We are all very professional. (How is Bosco feeling now?) Nothing much, he's very professional. I don't think there is anything special, the atmosphere on the set is really good. Of course I don't ask about his personal life."

Source: Mingpao
Translated by: aZnangel @ AsianEU Forum

48 year old Cheung Tat Ming is impatient and playful. He had always been an activist in the entertainment circle, but in the recent month he suddenly disappeared and rarely appears in public. Last week, it was rumored he has cancer. The media followed him for 48 hours and discovered the isolated Tat Ming had turned into a stick figure with severe hair loss and he looked haggard. Last Thursday, he was spotted in Causeway Bay at a clinic and was seen lacking physical coordination. He deliberately put on a cap and mouth mask to hide his appearance, but when asked if he had cancer? He denied: "My illness is pretty serious, I don't know how long I have to rest for."

Cheung Tat Ming began his career after graduating from The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts. He is an talented artist, who has participated in films, TV series, musicals and dubbing work. He's also a successful comedian, who has had stand-up comedy shows at the Hong Kong Coliseum.

After Tat Ming appeared at Andy Lau's fan gathering to do a standup comedy show, he was rarely seen in public thereafter. Recently he even stopped playing with his favorite Weibo and basically cut off all relations with the public. "Tat Ming hasn't appeared in a long time, a friend said he's dark and dry now. He lost a lot of hair and is very skinny. Really not sure if it's sick or not." A reader said.

Reporters spent the last 48 hours following Tat Ming and were surprised to see him avoiding the cameras. When asked of his current health condition? He forced a smile: "My illness is pretty serious. Of course I won't be working while I'm sick. I don't know how long I have to rest for. (It was rumored you have cancer?) Whatever, you all can guess what it is and say whatever you want." With that, Tat Ming called a taxi and left. Reporters discovered the clinic Tat Ming was at, is a clinic specialized in providing services to help patients clean out their arteries and veins. According to one of the staff at the clinic, reveals: "An average patient who has gone through chemotherapy or are undergoing chemotherapy have a lot of residue in their arteries and veins. Also, their immune system is very weak. Cleaning out the arteries/veins helps purify the body and make the person feel better."

Good friend Anthony Wong reveals Tat Ming had cancer before: "I cannot say what type of cancer he had, but he has already recovered from it! He's already all better." But his good friend is losing a lot of hair and is very skinny now, Anthony said: "That is the side effects of chemotherapy. Of course a sick person will lose weight! He already found a doctor, and is all better! He's fine, you all don't have to worry."

Source: HKHeadline
Translated by: aZnangel @ AsianEU Forum

It’s confirmed, Andy Lau will be returning to TVB to shoot TV drama! Acting as representative of TVB, Eric Tsang had certified the news when he was interviewed in Shanghai yesterday, the drama that Andy is cast has already been submitted, Andy is currently planning the script, shooting of the drama can start as early as 2013. In addition, Eric exclaimed that he also send out invitation to Chow Yun Fatt as the station is willing to tailor made a drama for him.

In recent years, the representative Hong Kong TVB station has lost its glory as the stories of its dramas are out-dated, lack of creativity and rhythm, several alleged copying of script. In recent years, some of TVB’s leading actors and actresses had left the station, making the station worried. According to insider’s introduction in TVB, Catherina Tsang and Tommy Leung are the two executive producers in charge of the production of TVB dramas, there are several producers under each, although there will be competition, but being in the same family, they won’t make it difficult for both camps.

When new TVB boss Charles Chan Kwok Keung went on-board, he had broken this “balance”, from next year he would out-source some of his production fees, he had given the task of out-sourcing to Eric Tsang and Wong Jing. This would inject fresh blood into TVB into the current crew and create some competition, in addition Eric and Wong Jing can make use of their “relationships”.

Currently Wong Jing managed to approach 7-times Best Actress winner Deanie Ip to join his camp, whereas Eric pit his hope on Andy. In an activity in Shanghai yesterday, Eric expressed that Andy had already agreed to his invitation, shooting of the drama can start as early as next year, it would be a drama of around 30-40 episodes. Eric already has the female lead in mind, “The female lead will also be a huge star, you will know when the time comes.”

Eric exclaimed that the discussion with Andy had gone really well, “We’re in the same tune when we discussed.” Eric taking up this task because he shared the same idea as the TVB management, “Wanted to trigger TVB, the dramas and movies in Hong Kong are going down for the past 10 years. I wanted to do something, to make new developments for Hong Kong TV, as TVB dramas allow the audience in Mainland China and overseas countries to understand more about Hong Kong.” Andy also agree to what I had said.
“Currently still thinking of the script, now me but Andy will do the thinking, I hope that the story will focus on Andy, because he’s starring in it. When he’s done with the synopsis, I’ll help him with the details. Estimated that the script will be ready by the end of the year.” Eric said.

Inviting heavenly king status artiste to cast in TV drama, people would be concern about their asking fees, but Eric expressed that they have yet discuss about money, “It’s not that discussing about money would hurt feelings, whereas for this matter, money is not the biggest issue, we don’t discuss about it, because if we discuss about it, we could not continue our discussion. We must bring out our sincerity, then think why we’re doing this, when we know of its meaning, this thing will be successful.” In addition, Eric revealed that he hope to invite Chow Yun Fatt to be in a drama, he had already sent out his invitation, “I feel that if I can moved one, I can moved others, believed that Chow would be glad to help his old company, take it slowly, I hope that Andy will be a good motivator.”

Source: Sina.com
Translated by: AndyLauSounds

The film THE WEDDING DIARY two nights ago held its Hong Kong premiere. Attendees included Elanne Kong Yeuk Lam, Aniu and director Adrian Teh (Cheung Kin Kwok). Aniu's birthday was on August 31 and the director's was on September 1, while Kong Yeuk Lam's was at the end of September. Thus fans presented cakes for them to celebrate with.

Aniu came to Hong Kong to promote for a day then had to return to Malaysia, as he was busy with THE WEDDING DIARY 2 theme song and his own record. He never guessed that the film would be released in Hong Kong. Kong Yeuk Lam pointed out that THE WEDDING DIARY was released last Valentine's Day in Malaysia and was very popular. The film company immediately started work on the sequel. She said that they got married in the first film, they became parents in the second. If the second film would receive great response, she too wanted to make a third film. Then they could have a third party between them.

Did they get a raise for the sequel? Aniu said, "OK." Were they worried about the Hong Kong box office? Aniu said that he was already very happy about the Hong Kong release. Aniu and Elanne Kong became a couple team after making these two films. Would they receive more performance offers? Aniu would like to but so far he has not. Kong Yeuk Lam said, "Me too! Aniu, I have to depend on you."

Source: Takungpao, Mingpao, on.cc
Translated by: hktopten

Aaron Kwok Fu Sing in COLD WAR (HONG JIN) played a deputy commissioner of police. He said that when he first read the script he was already deeply moved. Even when the production schedule clashed with his concert world tour, he still took it. In the film, Sing Sing played a father again after AFTER THIS OUR EXILE (FU JI). This time he even displayed his deputy commissioner's tough guy tenderness. During the day Sing Sing not only had to compete with Tony Leung Ka Fai at work but also strong enemies. At night Sing Sing immediately turned into a gentle father, tucking in his sleeping daughter. The entire shoot atmosphere went from the intense battle of wits during the shoot to the warmth of family.

In addition, Leung Ka Fai and Eddie Peng Yu-Yen in the film played father and son. Ka Fai said, "This character is a superintendent of police who has served for 30 years. He has many differences of opinion with his fellow police officer son, which creates strong and passionate conflict. It is rather fresh and interesting." Peng Yu-Yen also revealed, "Brother Ka Fai has always been an actor who I admire. He is a very easy going, humorous, and willing to share his performance experience actor. This is the biggest gain from this production for me."

Source: Takungpao, Mingpao, on.cc
Translated by: hktopten