In this post, we’ll go over the list of upcoming Asian Cinema releases from various independent distributors in the UK region. These are primarily going to be covering the latest home video releases for Japanese, Chinese, and Korean films via distributors such as 88 Films, Arrow Video, Eureka Entertainment, Radiance Films, Third Window Films and more.
This batch will cover all of the releases scheduled for October, November & December, wrapping up the year of 2023. Any delays will be listed under the release date adjustments section above the line-up. Artwork featured is the finalised version when available.
The schedule below is updated as of Thursday 12th October 2023.
Disclaimer: Amazon links included in this post are affiliated so if you decide to order them, I’ll earn a small percentage if they dispatch. Other retailer links are not affiliated. International shipping restrictions may apply for select items.
RELEASE DATE ADJUSTMENTS:
- The Long Arm of the Law Parts I & II – Release Date not final but is expected to ship in November
- The Medallion – Moved from 23rd October to 13th November
23rd October:
Battle Creek Brawl
殺手壕
Directed by Robert Clouse
Hong Kong / United States – 1980
| Format: | Price (SRP): | Availability: |
|---|---|---|
| Deluxe Collector’s Edition Blu-ray | £39.99 | 88 Films Amazon UK Terracotta |
| Audio/Presentation: |
|---|
| – Brand new 2K Remaster from the Original Negatives – Presented in High Definition (1080p) on Blu-ray in 2.39:1 Aspect Ratio – English Mono – Optional English SDH |
| On-Disc Extras: |
|---|
| – Audio Commentary with Kim Newman and Barry Forshaw – Audio Commentary with Frank Djeng and FJ DeSanto – Archive Interview with Jackie Chan – Interview with Producer Raymond Chow – Rumble in the USA, Jackie Chan Takes on America – Battle Hardened – David West on Battle Creek Brawl – Stills Gallery – Theatrical Trailer – USA The Big Brawl Trailer |
| Physical Extras: |
|---|
| – Limited Edition: Rigid Slipcase featuring brand-new artwork by Kung Fu Bob O’Brien – Limited Edition: Six double-sided collector’s lobby card reproductions – Limited Edition: Fold-out double-sided poster featuring ‘The Big Brawl’ art – Limited Edition: 80-page perfect bound book including Searching for a Big Break in The Big Brawl by Paul Bramhall, Battle Creek Brawlers by Brian Burkart and Coming to America, round one by Andrew Heskins PLUS selected archival imagery, posters, promo stills and more! – Reversible Sleeve |
Beach of the War Gods
戰神灘
Directed by Jimmy Wang Yu
Hong Kong – 1973
| Format: | Price (SRP): | Availability: |
|---|---|---|
| First Print Edition Blu-ray | £24.99 | Amazon UK Eureka Ent. Terracotta |
| Audio/Presentation: |
|---|
| – 1080p HD presentation on Blu-ray of the original Hong Kong theatrical cut from a brand new 2K restoration – Original Mandarin mono audio – Optional English dubbed audio – Optional English Subtitles, newly translated for this release |
| On-Disc Extras: |
|---|
| – Brand new feature length audio commentary by Asian film expert Frank Djeng (NY Asian Film Festival) – Brand new interview with action cinema experts Mike Leeder & Arne Venema on the life and career of Jimmy Wang Yu – Archival interview with Jimmy Wang Yu – Trailers |
| Physical Extras: |
|---|
| – First Print: Limited Edition O-Card slipcase featuring new artwork by Tony Stella [2000 copies] – First Print: A Limited Edition collector’s booklet featuring new writing by James Oliver and a review of the film by Dr Craig D. Reid from his book The Ultimate Guide to Martial Arts Movies of the 1970s [2000 copies] |
From Beijing With Love
國產凌凌漆
Directed by Stephen Chow & Lee Lik-chi
Hong Kong – 1994
| Format: | Price (SRP): | Availability: |
|---|---|---|
| First Print Edition Blu-ray | £24.99 | Amazon UK Eureka Ent. Terracotta |
| Audio/Presentation: |
|---|
| – 1080p HD presentation on Blu-ray from a restoration of the original film elements – Original Cantonese mono audio – Optional English dubbed audio – Optional English Subtitles |
| On-Disc Extras: |
|---|
| – Brand new feature length audio commentary Frank Djeng (NY Asian Film Festival) – Wong Kam Kong on “From Beijing With Love” – new interview with actor Wong Kam Kong about his role in the film – Wong Kam Kong in conversation – actor Wong Kam Kong discusses his career – Archival interview with Lee Lik-chi – Trailer |
| Physical Extras: |
|---|
| – First Print: Limited edition O-Card slipcase featuring new artwork by Grégory Sacré (Gokaiju) [2000 copies] – First Print: A Limited edition collector’s booklet featuring new writing by James Oliver [2000 copies] |
Magic Crystal
魔翡翠
Directed by Wong Jing
Hong Kong – 1986
| Format: | Price (SRP): | Availability: |
|---|---|---|
| First Print Edition Blu-ray | £19.99 | 88 Films Amazon UK Terracotta |
| Audio/Presentation: |
|---|
| – Brand New 2K Restoration in 1.85:1 Aspect Ratio from The Original Negatives – High Definition (1080p) Blu-ray™ presentation – Original Cantonese Mono with Newly Translated English Subtitles – English Mono Dub |
| On-Disc Extras: |
|---|
| – Audio Commentary by Hong Kong Film Expert Frank Djeng – “Fight Like a Girl” – Cynthia Rothrock on Magic Crystal – “Fast as Lightning” – Richard Norton on Magic Crystal – English Trailer |
| Physical Extras: |
|---|
| – First Print: Double Walled Matt Finish O-Ring featuring new artwork by Sean Longmore – First Print: Double-sided foldout poster – Reversible cover with new artwork by Sean Longmore and original HK Poster Art |
Three Films by Yasujirō Ozu
非常線の女 / 長屋紳士録 / 風の中の牝鶏
Directed by Yasujirō Ozu
Japan – 1933-1948
| Collection Includes: |
|---|
| – Dragnet Girl – Record of a Tenement Gentlemen – A Hen in the Wind |
| Format: | Price (SRP): | Availability: |
|---|---|---|
| First Print Edition Blu-ray | £29.99 | Amazon UK Terracotta |
| Audio/Presentation: |
|---|
| – Newly restored and presented in High Definition, on Blu-ray for the first time – Japanese audio with English subtitles |
| On-Disc Extras: |
|---|
| Dragnet Girl: – New audio commentary by Asian cinema expert Tony Rayns Record of a Tenement Gentlemen: – New audio commentary by Japanese cinema expert Jasper Sharp A Hen in the Wind: – New audio commentary by film critic Adrian Martin |
| Physical Extras: |
|---|
| – First Print: Illustrated booklet with essays on the films by Bryony Dixon, Tony Rayns and Jonathan Rosenbaum and notes on his score for Dragnet Girl by Ed Hughes |
Visible Secret
幽靈人間
Directed by Ann Hui
Hong Kong – 2001
| Format: | Price (SRP): | Availability: |
|---|---|---|
| Limited Release Blu-ray | £16.99 | Amazon UK Radiance Terracotta |
| Audio/Presentation: |
|---|
| – High-Definition digital transfer – Original 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio surround sound – New and improved English subtitle translation by Dylan Cheung |
| On-Disc Extras: |
|---|
| – New conversation between Ann Hui and NYAFF director Ken Smith who was also on set for the original shoot (2023) – New visual essay by critic and programmer Alexandra Heller-Nicholas (2023) – Archival making-of documentary featuring interviews with the cast and crew and behind-the-scenes footage, (2001, 14 mins) – Trailer |
| Physical Extras: |
|---|
| – Limited Edition: Booklet featuring new writing on the film and its place in the horror genre by Hong Kong Horror Cinema co-editor Gary Bettinson – Limited Edition: Reversible sleeve featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Time Tomorrow – Limited Edition: Presented in full-height Scanavo packaging with removable OBI strip leaving packaging free of certificates and markings |
| Other Notes: |
|---|
| A single pressing of 2,500 copies. Once sold out, this will not be re-released in a standard edition. |
30th October:
DOOR & DOOR II
ドア / ドア2：東京日記
Directed by Banmei Takahashi
Japan – 1988-1991
| Collection Includes: |
|---|
| – DOOR – DOOR II |
| Format: | Price (SRP): | Availability: |
|---|---|---|
| Director’s Company Edition Blu-ray | £29.99 | Amazon UK Arrow Video Terracotta |
| Audio/Presentation: |
|---|
| – New digital remasters on both films, from their original negatives – Japanese audio with English subtitles |
| On-Disc Extras: |
|---|
| DOOR: – New Audio Commentary by Jasper Sharp – Interview with director Banmei Takahashi – Trailer DOOR II: – Trailer |
| Physical Extras: |
|---|
| – ‘Director’s Company’ special edition featuring insert by Jasper Sharp – limited to 2000 copies – Slipcase with artwork from Gokaiju – Reversible sleeve featuring both DOOR 1 and 2 artworks |
13th November:
The Big Boss
唐山大兄
Directed by Lo Wei
Hong Kong – 1971
| Format: | Price (SRP): | Availability: |
|---|---|---|
| Limited Edition 4K Ultra HD | £29.99 | Amazon UK Arrow Video HMV Zavvi |
| Limited Edition Blu-ray | £24.99 | Amazon UK Arrow Video HMV Zavvi |
| Audio/Presentation: |
|---|
| The Big Boss: – 4K Ultra HD disc: 4K (2160p) UHD Blu-ray presentation in Dolby Vision (HDR10 compatible) of the 99-minute 1983 version, newly restored by Arrow Films from the original negative – 4K Ultra HD disc: 4K (2160p) UHD Blu-ray presentation in Dolby Vision (HDR10 compatible) of the 100-min English Export Cut, featuring a rare alternate English dub track (some scenes in Mandarin); and the 100-min US Theatrical Cut – Blu-ray disc: High Definition Blu-ray (1080p) presentation of the 99-minute 1983 version of The Big Boss, restored by Arrow Films from the original negative – Blu-ray disc: High Definition Blu-ray (1080p) presentation of the 100-min English Export Cut, featuring a rare alternate English dub track (some scenes in Mandarin); and the 100-min US Theatrical Cut – Original newly restored lossless Mandarin, English and Cantonese mono audio – Two English mono options, the standard mix and a Japanese mix with alternate score – Newly translated English subtitles, plus optional subtitles for the deaf and hard-of-hearing for the English dubs The Big Boss: The Mandarin Cut: – 4K Ultra HD disc: 4K (2160p) UHD Blu-ray presentation in Dolby Vision (HDR10 compatible) of the 110-min Mandarin Cut of The Big Boss, restored by Arrow Films – Blu-ray disc: High Definition Blu-ray (1080p) presentation of the 110-min Mandarin Cut of The Big Boss, restored by Arrow Films – Newly restored English subtitles for the Mandarin Cut – Subtitles for the deaf and hard-of-hearing on both English cuts |
| On-Disc Extras: |
|---|
| The Big Boss: – Two brand new feature commentaries, one by David Desser and one by Brandon Bentley – Return to Thailand, a new documentary produced and presented by Matt Routledge exploring the original filming locations – Newly uncovered deleted and extended scenes, with optional commentary by Bentley – The Not-Quite-Biggest Boss, a video essay by Bentley investigating the scenes still lost, such as the ‘saw-in-the-head’ scene – Archive interviews with co-star Lau Wing and stuntman Tung Wai – Bruce Lee Vs. Peter Thomas, a short video essay about the music for the English version – Alternate credits sequences – Trailer gallery, including a ‘Before The Big Boss’ reel and the trailer for lost sequel The Big Boss Part II – Image gallery The Big Boss: The Mandarin Cut: – Axis of English, a brand new video essay by Will Offutt profiling the English dubbing actors for The Big Boss, Fist of Fury and The Way of the Dragon – Unrestored raw scan of the Mandarin Cut (1080p only) |
| Physical Extras: |
|---|
| – Limited Edition: Illustrated collector’s booklet featuring writing on the film by Walter Chaw – Limited Edition: Illustrated slipcase featuring newly commissioned artwork by Tony Stella – Reversible sleeve featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Tony Stella |
Fist of Fury
精武門
Directed by Lo Wei
Hong Kong – 1972
| Format: | Price (SRP): | Availability: |
|---|---|---|
| Limited Edition 4K Ultra HD | £29.99 | Amazon UK Arrow Video HMV Zavvi |
| Limited Edition Blu-ray | £24.99 | Amazon UK Arrow Video HMV Zavvi |
| Audio/Presentation: |
|---|
| – 4K Ultra HD disc: 4K (2160p) UHD Blu-ray presentation in Dolby Vision (HDR10 compatible), newly restored by Arrow Films from the original negative – Blu-ray disc: High Definition Blu-ray (1080p) presentation, restored by Arrow Films from the original negative – Alternate ‘English Export Cut’ viewing option with different opening and closing credits via seamless branching – Original newly restored Mandarin, English and Cantonese mono audio – Two English mono options, the standard mix and a Japanese mix with alternate music – Newly translated English subtitles, plus optional subtitles for the deaf and hard-of-hearing on the English dubs |
| On-Disc Extras: |
|---|
| – Two brand new feature commentaries, one by Jonathan Clements and one by Brandon Bentley – Legend of the Dragon, a newly filmed 80-minute overview of Lee’s life and career by film critic and historian Tony Rayns – Visions of Fury, a new featurette on Bruce Lee’s collaboration with Golden Harvest and Lo Wei, featuring interviews with co-producer Andre – Morgan and martial arts experts Michael Worth, Frank Djeng, John Kreng, Andy Cheng and Bruce Willow – Archive interviews with co-stars Nora Miao, Riki Hashimoto, Jun Katsumura and Yuen Wah – Alternate credits sequence – Trailer gallery, including a Chen Zhen trailer reel – Image gallery |
| Physical Extras: |
|---|
| – Limited Edition: Illustrated collector’s booklet featuring writing on the film by Walter Chaw – Limited Edition: Illustrated slipcase featuring newly commissioned artwork by Tony Stella – Reversible sleeve featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Tony Stella |
Game of Death & Game of Death II
死亡遊戲 / 死亡塔
Directed by Robert Clouse (with Bruce Lee & Sammo Hung) & Ng See-yuen
Hong Kong – 1978-1981
| Collection Includes: |
|---|
| – Game of Death – Game of Death II – Tower of Death |
| Format: | Price (SRP): | Availability: |
|---|---|---|
| Limited Edition 4K Ultra HD & Blu-ray | £29.99 | Amazon UK Arrow Video HMV Zavvi |
| Limited Edition Blu-ray | £24.99 | Amazon UK Arrow Video HMV Zavvi |
| Audio/Presentation: |
|---|
| Game of Death: – 4K Ultra HD disc: 4K (2160p) UHD Blu-ray presentations in Dolby Vision (HDR10 compatible), newly restored by Arrow Films from original film elements, of the international cut and the Japanese cut via seamless branching – Blu-ray disc: High Definition (1080p) Blu-ray presentations, restored by Arrow Films from original film elements, of the international cut and the Japanese cut of Game of Death via seamless branching – Original newly restored English mono audio on both cuts – English subtitles for the deaf and hard-of-hearing Game of Death II: – Brand new 2K restoration of the International Cut of the film titled Game of Death II by Arrow Films from original film elements – High Definition (1080p) Blu-ray presentation – Original lossless English mono audio – English subtitles for the deaf and hard-of-hearing on Game of Death II Tower of Death: – High Definition (1080p) Blu-ray presentation of the Hong Kong Theatrical Cut titled Tower of Death (contains some standard-definition material) – Original lossless Cantonese, Mandarin and English mono audio – Optional newly translated English subtitles |
| On-Disc Extras: |
|---|
| Game of Death: – Brand new feature commentary by Brandon Bentley & Mike Leeder – The Song I’m Singing Tomorrow, a newly filmed interview with star Colleen Camp – Deleted and extended scenes from the Chinese-language versions of the film, including two alternate endings (contains some standard-definition material) – Archive interviews with co-stars Dan Inosanto and Bob Wall – Behind-the-scenes footage as featured in Bruce Lee: The Legend – Rare pre-production sales featurette from 1976 with new commentary by Michael Worth and producer Andre Morgan – Fight scene dailies directed by Sammo Hung – Locations featurette from 2013 – Trailer gallery, including Bruceploitation and ‘Robert Clouse at Golden Harvest’ trailer reels – Image gallery Game of Death II: – Brand new feature commentary by Frank Djeng & Michael Worth, co-producers of Enter the Clones of Bruce – Archive interview with co-star Roy Horan – Alternate Korean version with unique footage, presented in High Definition with original lossless mono audio and newly translated English subtitles – Alternate US video version in High Definition with lossless English mono audio, via seamless branching – Alternate end credits sequence for Game of Death II – Trailer gallery – Image gallery |
| Physical Extras: |
|---|
| – Limited Edition: Illustrated collector’s booklet featuring writing on the film by Walter Chaw – Limited Edition: Illustrated slipcase featuring newly commissioned artwork by Tony Stella – Reversible sleeve featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Tony Stella |
The Medallion
飛龍再生/免死金牌
Directed by Gordon Chan
Hong Kong / United States – 2003
| Format: | Price (SRP): | Availability: |
|---|---|---|
| Limited Release Blu-ray | £16.99 | 88 Films Amazon UK Terracotta |
| Audio/Presentation: |
|---|
| – High Definition Blu-ray (1080p) presentation in 1.85:1 Aspect Ratio – 5.1 English DTS-HD Master Surround Audio – 2.0 English LPCM Stereo Audio |
| On-Disc Extras: |
|---|
| – Audio commentary by producer Bill Borden and editor Don Brocho – Alternate Ending – 14 Deleted Scenes – Theatrical Trailer |
| Physical Extras: |
|---|
| – First Print: Limited Edition Slipcase |
| Other Notes: |
|---|
| The license for this release will only last roughly under a year. |
The Royal Tramp Collection
鹿鼎記 / 鹿鼎記2神龍教
Directed by Wong Jing
Hong Kong – 1992
| Collection Includes: |
|---|
| – Royal Tramp – Royal Tramp II |
| Format: | Price (SRP): | Availability: |
|---|---|---|
| First Print Edition Blu-ray | £26.99 | Amazon UK Eureka Ent. Terracotta |
| Audio/Presentation: |
|---|
| – Brand new 4K restorations of both films, presented in 1080p HD across two Blu-ray discs – Original Cantonese audio tracks – Optional English dubbed audio – Optional English subtitles newly translated for this release |
| On-Disc Extras: |
|---|
| – Brand new audio commentaries by Asian film expert Frank Djeng and Mike Leeder & Arne Venema – A career spanning interview with veteran Hong Kong actress Helene Law Lan, courtesy of the Frédéric Ambroisine Video Archive – Two archival interviews with Wong Jing about Royal Tramp and the Jin Yong novel the story is based on – Trailers |
| Physical Extras: |
|---|
| – First Print: Limited Edition O-Card slipcase featuring new artwork by Darren Wheeling [2000 copies] – First Print: A limited edition collector’s booklet featuring new writing on the films [2000 copies] |
The Way of the Dragon
猛龍過江
Directed by Bruce Lee
Hong Kong – 1972
| Format: | Price (SRP): | Availability: |
|---|---|---|
| Limited Edition 4K Ultra HD & Blu-ray | £29.99 | Amazon UK Arrow Video HMV Zavvi |
| Limited Edition Blu-ray | £24.99 | Amazon UK Arrow Video HMV Zavvi |
| Audio/Presentation: |
|---|
| – 4K Ultra HD disc: 4K (2160p) UHD Blu-ray presentations in Dolby Vision (HDR10 compatible), newly restored by Arrow Films from original film elements, of the Hong Kong Theatrical Cut and the Japanese Cut via seamless branching – Blu-ray disc: High Definition Blu-ray (1080p) presentations, restored by Arrow Films from original film elements, of the Hong Kong Theatrical Cut and the Japanese Cut via seamless branching – Original newly restored lossless Mandarin, English and Cantonese mono audio on the Hong Kong Theatrical Cut – Alternate lossless English mono audio on the Japanese Cut – Optional newly translated English subtitles – Subtitles for the deaf and hard-of-hearing on both English audio options |
| On-Disc Extras: |
|---|
| The Way of the Dragon: – Two brand new feature commentaries, one by Frank Djeng & Michael Worth and one by Brandon Bentley – The Way of the Camera, a new documentary looking at Lee’s filmmaking and fighting method in his directorial debut, featuring interviews with Golden Harvest producer Andre Morgan, martial arts experts Michael Worth, Jon Kreng, Andy Cheng, Frank Djeng, David Yeung, film historian Courtney Joyner and actors Piet (Peter) Schweer, Jon Benn and John Saxon – Meet the Italian Beauty, a newly filmed interview with star Malisa Longo – The Scottish Soldier Meets the Dragon, a newly filmed interview with on-set observer John Young – Newly recorded select scene commentary by ‘thug’ actor Piet Schweer – Archive interviews with co-stars Jon Benn, Bob Wall and Hwang In-shik and production managers Chaplin Chang and Louis Sit – Trailer gallery, including a Bruceploitation trailer reel – Image gallery Bonus Blu-ray Disc: The Final Game of Death: – The Final Game of Death, a brand new three-hour video essay by Arrow Films that incorporates a new 2K restoration of all two hours of Lee’s original dailies from a recently-discovered interpositive – Game of Death: Revisited, an earlier attempt to reconstruct Lee’s original vision from 2001 – Super 8 footage from 1974 of Dan Inosanto demonstrating the nunchaku – Brief archival interview with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar from 1976 – Image gallery |
| Physical Extras: |
|---|
| – Limited Edition: Illustrated collector’s booklet featuring writing on the film by Walter Chaw – Limited Edition: Illustrated slipcase featuring newly commissioned artwork by Tony Stella – Reversible sleeve featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Tony Stella |
20th November:
Deadly Masters: 4 Kung Fu Classics from Director Joseph Kuo
虎豹龍蛇鷹絕拳 / 迷拳三十六招 / 酒仙十八跌 / 师父出马
Directed by Joseph Kuo
Taiwan – 1977-1979
| Collection Includes: |
|---|
| – The 7 Grandmasters – The 36 Deadly Styles – The World of Drunken Master – The Old Master |
| Format: | Price (SRP): | Availability: |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Edition Blu-ray | £17.99 | Amazon UK Eureka Ent. Terracotta |
| Audio/Presentation: |
|---|
| The 7 Grandmasters: – 1080p presentation – Original Mandarin audio – Optional English dubbed audio – Alternative Cantonese audio – Optional English subtitles The 36 Deadly Styles: – 1080p presentation – Original Mandarin audio – Optional English dubbed audio – Optional English subtitles The World of Drunken Master: – 1080p presentation – Original Mandarin audio – Optional English dubbed audio – Alternative Cantonese audio – Optional English subtitles The Old Master: – 1080p presentation – Original Mandarin audio – Optional English dubbed audio – Alternative Cantonese audio – Optional English subtitles |
| On-Disc Extras: |
|---|
| The 7 Grandmasters: – Audio commentaries with Asian film expert Frank Djeng and martial artist / filmmaker Michael Worth The 36 Deadly Styles: – Audio commentaries with action cinema experts Mike Leeder and Arne Venema The World of Drunken Master: – Audio commentaries with Asian film expert Frank Djeng and martial artist / filmmaker Michael Worth The Old Master: – Audio commentaries with action cinema experts Mike Leeder and Arne Venema |
Fearless Shaolin: 4 Kung Fu Classics from Director Joseph Kuo
少林功夫 / 少林小子 / 少林寺十八銅人 / 雍正大破十八銅人
Directed by Joseph Kuo
Taiwan – 1974-1976
| Collection Includes: |
|---|
| – Shaolin Kung Fu – The Shaolin Kids – 18 Bronzemen – Return of the 18 Bronzemen |
| Format: | Price (SRP): | Availability: |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Edition Blu-ray | £17.99 | Amazon UK Eureka Ent. Terracotta |
| Audio/Presentation: |
|---|
| Shaolin Kung Fu: – 1080p presentation – Original Mandarin audio – Optional English dubbed audio – Optional English subtitles The Shaolin Kids: – 1080p presentation – Original Mandarin audio – Optional English dubbed audio – Optional English subtitles 18 Bronzemen: – 1080p presentation – Original Mandarin audio – Optional English subtitles Return of the 18 Bronzemen: – 1080p presentation – Original Mandarin audio – Optional English dubbed audio – Optional English subtitles |
| On-Disc Extras: |
|---|
| Shaolin Kung Fu: – Audio commentaries with action cinema experts Mike Leeder and Arne Venema The Shaolin Kids: – Audio commentaries with action cinema experts Mike Leeder and Arne Venema 18 Bronzemen: – Audio commentaries with Asian film expert Frank Djeng and film writer John Charles (The Hong Kong Filmography, 1977–1997) – 8 Bronzemen: The Hong Kong Version – a reconstruction of the original theatrical release version of 18 Bronzemen Return of the 18 Bronzemen: – Audio commentaries with Asian film expert Frank Djeng and film writer John Charles (The Hong Kong Filmography, 1977–1997) |
Heroes and Villains: Three Films starring Jet Li
给爸爸的信 / 冒險王 / 殺手之王
Directed by Corey Yuen, Ching Siu-tung & Stephen Tung
Hong Kong – 1995-1998
| Collection Includes: |
|---|
| – My Father is a Hero – Dr Wai in “The Scripture with No Words” – Hitman |
| Format: | Price (SRP): | Availability: |
|---|---|---|
| First Print Edition Blu-ray | £31.99 | Amazon UK Eureka Ent. Terracotta |
| Audio/Presentation: |
|---|
| My Father is a Hero (The Enforcer): – 1080p presentation of the fully uncut Hong Kong theatrical cut from a new 4K restoration – Original Cantonese mono audio – “Classic” English dubbed audio – Newly translated subtitles Dr Wai in “The Scripture with No Words”: – 1080p presentation of the original Hong Kong theatrical cut from a new 2K restoration – Original Cantonese mono audio – “Classic” English dubbed audio – Original Mandarin mono audio – Newly translated subtitles Hitman: – 1080p presentation of the original Hong Kong theatrical cut from a new HD restoration of the original film elements – 1080p presentation of the US “Contract Killer” release version – Original Cantonese mono audio – “Classic” English dubbed audio – Newly translated subtitles |
| On-Disc Extras: |
|---|
| My Father is a Hero (The Enforcer): – Brand new audio commentaries – Archival interview with producer Wong Jing – Archival interview with actor Tse Miu – Archival interview with actor Ken Lo – Trailers Dr Wai in “The Scripture with No Words”: – Brand new audio commentaries – Two archival featurettes on Jet Li and the making of the film – Trailers Hitman: – Brand new audio commentaries – Archival interview with Jet Li – Archival interview with Simon Yam – Archival interview with Keiji Sato – Archival “Making of…” featurette – Archival footage from the film’s première – Trailers |
| Physical Extras: |
|---|
| – First Print: Limited Edition O Card slipcase featuring new artwork by Sam Gilbey [2000 copies] – First Print: Limited edition collectors booklet featuring new essays by Simon Abrams and David Desser [2000 copies] |
The Long Arm of the Law Parts I & II
省港旗兵 / 省港旗兵續集
Directed by Johnny Mak & Michael Mak
Hong Kong – 1984-1987
| Collection Includes: |
|---|
| – The Long Arm of the Law – The Long Arm of the Law Part II |
| Format: | Price (SRP): | Availability: |
|---|---|---|
| Deluxe Collector’s Edition Blu-ray | £39.99 | 88 Films Amazon UK Terracotta |
| Audio/Presentation: |
|---|
| Long Arm of the Law: – Brand New 2K Remaster from the Original Camera Negative – High Definition (1080p) Blu-ray™ presentation in 1.85:1 Aspect Ratio – Hong Kong Version featuring Cantonese Mono Audio with Newly translated English Subtitles (106 mins approx) – English Version featuring English Mono dub (105 mins approx) Long Arm of the Law Part II: – Brand New 2K Remaster from the Original Camera Negative – High Definition (1080p) Blu-ray™ presentation in 1.85:1 Aspect Ratio – Hong Kong Version featuring Cantonese Mono Audio with Newly translated English Subtitles (90 mins approx) – English Version featuring English Mono dub (87 mins approx) |
| On-Disc Extras: |
|---|
| Long Arm of the Law: – Audio Commentary by Hong Kong Film Expert Frank Djeng (HK Version) – Family Business – An Interview with Michael Mak – From Hong Kong Police to Big Circle Gangs – An Interview with Scriptwriter Philip Chan – A Conversation with Action Director Billy Chan and Scriptwriter Philip Chan – An Interview with Director Johnny Mak – Hong Kong Trailer Long Arm of the Law Part II: – Audio Commentary by Hong Kong Film Expert Frank Djeng (HK Version) – Bringing the Action – An Interview with Director Michael Mak – Man of Action – An Interview with Co-Star Ben Lam – An Offer You Can’t Refuse – An Interview with Scriptwriter Philip Chan – The Iron Fist of Crime – An Interview with Stuntman Stephen Chan – Hong Kong Trailer – English Trailer |
| Physical Extras: |
|---|
| – Limited Edition: Rigid Slipcase to House 2 11mm Black Blu-ray case with artwork by Sean “Barbenheimer” Longmore – Limited Edition: 20 Page booklet featuring essays – Reversible cover with new art by Sean Longmore |
27th November:
Last Hero in China
黃飛鴻之鐵雞鬥蜈蚣
Directed by Wong Jing
Hong Kong – 1993
| Format: | Price (SRP): | Availability: |
|---|---|---|
| First Print Edition Blu-ray | £19.99 | 88 Films Amazon UK Terracotta |
| Audio/Presentation: |
|---|
| – HD Transfer in Original 1.85:1 Aspect Ratio – High Definition (1080p) Blu-ray™ presentation – 2.0 Cantonese Original Theatrical Mono with English Subtitles – 2.0 Cantonese Home Video Mix with English Subtitles – 2.0 English Dub |
| On-Disc Extras: |
|---|
| – Audio Commentary with Hong Kong Film Expert James Mudge – Deleted Scenes – Jet Li’s UK Visit (2000) – Trailer – Stills Gallery |
| Physical Extras: |
|---|
| – First Print: Limited Edition Slipcase |
Typhoon Club
台風クラブ
Directed by Shinji Sōmai
Japan – 1985
| Format: | Price (SRP): | Availability: |
|---|---|---|
| Director’s Company Edition Blu-ray | £29.99 | Amazon UK Arrow Video Terracotta |
| Audio/Presentation: |
|---|
| – New 4K digital remaster from the original negatives – Japanese audio with English subtitles |
| On-Disc Extras: |
|---|
| – Feature audio commentary by Tom Mes – Selected audio commentary by Josh Slater-Williams – Assistant Director Koji Enokido Talk Event – Introduction by Ryusuke Hamaguchi at the Berlin Film Festival – Trailer |
| Physical Extras: |
|---|
| – ‘Director’s Company’ special edition featuring insert by Jasper Sharp – limited to 2000 copies – Slipcase with artwork from Gokaiju |
4th December:
The Blue Jean Monster
着牛仔裤的钟馗
Directed by Ivan Lai
Hong Kong – 1991
| Format: | Price (SRP): | Availability: |
|---|---|---|
| First Print Edition Blu-ray | £19.99 | 88 Films Amazon UK Terracotta |
| Audio/Presentation: |
|---|
| – 2K Remaster from the Original Negatives presented in High Definition (1080p) Blu-ray in 1.85:1 Aspect Ratio – Original Cantonese Mono with English Subtitles |
| On-Disc Extras: |
|---|
| – Man Made Monster – An Interview with Assistant Director Sam Leong – Original Hong Kong Trailer |
| Physical Extras: |
|---|
| – First Print: Limited Edition Slipcase – Reversible sleeve with newly commissioned artwork by James Neal and Original HK poster |
Casino Raiders
至尊無上
Directed by Jimmy Heung & Wong Jing
Hong Kong – 1989
| Format: | Price (SRP): | Availability: |
|---|---|---|
| First Print Edition Blu-ray | £24.99 | Amazon UK Eureka Ent. Terracotta |
| Audio/Presentation: |
|---|
| – 1080p presentation on Blu-ray from a restoration of the original film elements – Original Cantonese audio track – Optional English subtitles |
| On-Disc Extras: |
|---|
| – Brand new feature length audio commentary by Asian film expert Frank Djeng (NY Asian Film Festival) – Brand new feature length audio commentary by action cinema experts Mike Leeder & Arne Venema – New documentary looking at gambling culture in Hong Kong, and the popularity of the film genre that Casino Raiders helped to popularise |
| Physical Extras: |
|---|
| – First Print: Limited edition O-Card slipcase featuring new artwork by Grégory Sacré (Gokaiju) [2000 copies] – First Print: A Limited edition collector’s booklet featuring new writing by James Oliver [2000 copies] |
The Fall of Ako Castle
赤穂城断絶
Directed by Kinji Fukasaku
Japan – 1978
| Format: | Price (SRP): | Availability: |
|---|---|---|
| First Print Edition Blu-ray | £24.99 | Amazon UK Eureka Ent. Terracotta |
| Audio/Presentation: |
|---|
| – Presented in 1080p HD from a restoration of the original film elements by Toei – Uncompressed original Japanese Mono audio – Optional English subtitles |
| On-Disc Extras: |
|---|
| – New audio commentary by critic Tom Mes – New interview with asian film expert Tony Rayns – New video essay by author and critic Jasper Sharp |
| Physical Extras: |
|---|
| – First Print: O-Card slipcase featuring new artwork by Chris Malbon [2000 copies] – A collector’s booklet featuring new writing on the film by Jonathan Clements – Reversible sleeve featuring original poster artwork |
The Inspector Wears Skirts
霸王花
Directed by Wellson Chin
Hong Kong – 1988
| Format: | Price (SRP): | Availability: |
|---|---|---|
| First Print Edition Blu-ray | £19.99 | 88 Films Amazon UK Terracotta |
| Audio/Presentation: |
|---|
| – Original Cantonese Mono with English Subtitles |
| On-Disc Extras: |
|---|
| – TBA |
| Physical Extras: |
|---|
| – First Print: Limited Edition Slipcase – Reversible sleeve with newly commissioned artwork by James Neal and Original HK poster |
The Police Story Trilogy
警察故事 / 警察故事續集 / 警察故事3超級警察
Directed by Jackie Chan & Stanley Tong
Hong Kong – 1985-1992
| Collection Includes: |
|---|
| – Police Story – Police Story 2 – Police Story 3: Supercop |
| Format: | Price (SRP): | Availability: |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Edition 4K Ultra HD | £37.99 | Amazon UK Eureka Ent. Terracotta |
| Audio/Presentation: |
|---|
| Police Story: – 4K (2160p) UHD presentation of the original Hong Kong theatrical cut [100 mins] – 1080p HD presentation of the alternate “Police Force” export cut of the film [88 mins] – Hong Kong Version – Original Cantonese mono audio, as well as optional restored 5.1 DTS-HD MA – Hong Kong Theatrical Version – Classic English dub (original mono) – Police Force Version – Option of either the classic English dub track or a rare alternate audio track featuring the original Cantonese audio mixed with the Kevin Bassinson score – Optional English subtitles Police Story 2: – 4K (2160p) UHD presentation of the Extended cut of the film [121 mins] – 1080p HD presentation of the original Hong Kong theatrical version [105 mins] – 1080p HD presentation of the alternate export version [95 mins] – Extended Version – Original Cantonese mono audio, as well as optional restored 5.1 DTS-HD MA – Extended Version – English dub presented in restored 5.1 DTS-HD MA – Hong Kong Theatrical Version – Original Cantonese mono audio – Export Version – Classic English dub track – Optional English subtitles Police Story 3: Supercop: – 4K (2160p) UHD presentation of the original Hong Kong theatrical cut [96 mins] from a restoration of the original film elements – 1080p HD presentation of the alternate US version [91 mins] – Hong Kong Theatrical Version – Original Cantonese mono audio, as well as an optional alternate Cantonese audio track featuring original, unaltered, sound effects – Hong Kong Theatrical Version – Cantonese Dolby Atmos Surround Sound Audio – Hong Kong Theatrical Version – Classic English dub track – US Version – “American English” dub track, including Jackie Chan and Michelle Yeoh voicing their own characters – US Version – Original Cantonese audio – Optional English subtitles |
| On-Disc Extras: |
|---|
| Police Story: – Hong Kong Theatrical Version – Audio commentary with Asian film experts Frank Djeng (NY Asian Film Festival) and F.J. DeSanto – Hong Kong Theatrical Version – Audio commentary with action cinema experts Mike Leeder & Arne Venema – Archival interview with Jackie Chan [19 mins] – Alternate and Deleted Scenes – Archival “Jackie Chan Stunts” promo – Trailers, including the film’s original theatrical and export trailers Police Story 2: – Extended Version – Audio commentary with Asian film experts Frank Djeng (NY Asian Film Festival) and F.J. DeSanto – Extended Version – Audio commentary with action cinema experts Mike Leeder & Arne Venema – Hong Kong Theatrical Version – Archival audio commentary with Miles Wood and Jude Poyer – “Jackie Chan” episode of Son of the Incredibly Strange Film Show [41 mins] – documentary on Jackie Chan’s early career from the cult film documentary series, presented by Jonathan Ross – Archival interview with actor and stuntman Benny Lai [15 mins] – Outtakes – Trailers, including the film’s original theatrical and export trailers Police Story 3: Supercop: – Hong Kong Theatrical Version – Audio commentary with Asian film experts Frank Djeng (NY Asian Film Festival) and F.J. DeSanto – Hong Kong Theatrical Version – Audio commentary with action cinema experts Mike Leeder & Arne Venema – Interview with Stunt Coordinator and Action Film Historian John Kreng – Featurette on rarely seen Jackie Chan video games, Kung Fu Master & Fists of Fire by Arne Venema – Featurette on the filming locations of the Police Story trilogy – Three archival interviews with director Stanley Tong (Combined runtime approx 65 mins), including a half-hour interview from the 2005 Cannes Film Festival courtesy of the Frédéric Ambroisine Video Archive – Archival interview with Jackie Chan (20 mins) – Archival interview with Michelle Yeoh (23 mins) – Archival interview with Jackie Chan’s long-time bodyguard and co-star Ken Lo (21 mins) – Outtakes (50 mins) – a huge selection of NG (“No Good”) shots from the film – Trailers |
18th December:
Elegant Beast
しとやかな獣
Directed by Yuzo Kawashima
Japan – 1962
| Audio/Presentation: |
|---|
| – New 4K restoration – Uncompressed mono PCM audio – New and improved English subtitles |
| On-Disc Extras: |
|---|
| – Interview with film critic Toshiaki Sato (2023) – Appreciation by filmmaker Toshiaki Toyoda (2023) – Visual essay by critic Tom Mes on post-war architecture in Japanese cinema (2023) – Trailer |
| Physical Extras: |
|---|
| – Limited Edition: Booklet featuring new writing by Midori Suiren and contemporary archival writing – Limited Edition: Reversible sleeve featuring original and newly commissioned artwork – Limited Edition of 3000 copies, presented in full-height Scanavo packaging with removable OBI strip leaving packaging free of certificates and markings |
World Noir Vol. 1 (feat. I Am Waiting)
俺は待ってるぜ
Directed by Koreyoshi Kurahara
Japan – 1957
| Collection Includes: |
|---|
| – I Am Waiting (Ore wa matteru ze) – Japanese 1957 film by Koreyoshi Kurahara – Witness in the City (Un témoin dans la ville) – French 1959 film by Édouard Molinaro – The Facts of Murder (Un maledetto imbroglio) – Italian 1957 film by Pietro Germi |
| Audio/Presentation: |
|---|
| I Am Waiting: – High Definition digital transfer, on Blu-ray for the first time in the world – Original uncompressed mono PCM audio – Optional English subtitles Witness in the City: – 2K restoration of Witness in the City, on Blu-ray for the first time in the UK – Original uncompressed mono PCM audio – Optional English subtitles The Facts of Murder: – New 4K restoration carried out by L’Immagine Ritrovata at the Cineteca di Bologna, presented on Blu-ray for the first time in the world – Original uncompressed mono PCM audio – Newly translated optional English subtitles |
| On-Disc Extras: |
|---|
| I Am Waiting: – Audio commentary by Japanese cinema expert Jasper Sharp – Yujiro’s Travel Diary – a documentary on star Yujiro Ishihara during location shooting in Europe (1959, 42 mins) – The Yujiro Effect – a visual essay by Mark Schilling – Trailer Witness in the City: – Introduction by critic Tony Rayns – Interview with Philippe Durant, biographer of Lino Ventura, who speaks about the film and the iconic actor – French noir – critic and author Ginette Vincendeau provides an overview of noir in France during the 1950s The Facts of Murder: – New interview with Pietro Germi expert Mario Sesti (2023) – The Man With the Cigar in His Mouth – a documentary about Pietro Germi featuring interviews with his colleagues and collaborators including Mario Monicelli, Claudia Cardinale, Stefania Sandrelli, Giuseppe Tornatore among others (Mario Sesti, 1997, 41 mins) – What’s Black and Yellow All Over? All Shades of Italian Film Noir – visual essay by Paul A. J. Lewis on the presence of noir trends in Italian cinema and the evolution of the genre (2023) – Trailer |
| Physical Extras: |
|---|
| – Limited Edition: 80-page perfect bound booklet featuring new writing on the films by critics and experts including Barry Forshaw on noir represented outside the US, William Carroll on post-war occupation period in Japanese cinema, Hayley Scanlon on Japanese noir, an interview with Edouard Molinari, Roberto Curti on the hybrid nature of Italian cinema, and Sam Wigley on 50s world noir from other countries – Limited Edition: Reversible sleeves featuring original and newly commissioned artwork – Limited Edition of 3000 copies, presented in a rigid box with full-height Scanavo cases for each film and removable OBI strip leaving packaging free of certificates and markings |
| Other Notes: |
|---|
| While this blog mainly focuses on Asian Cinema, it would be an insult to the distributor to not mention the other World Cinema films included in this box set. |
The Normanic Vault 
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