Andy is always supportive of movies. He feels that HK movie industry in the recent years is lacking in new ideas & uniqueness. There is a need to film movies with specialty of HK. At the interview by Commercial Radio DJ yesterday, he disclosed he has put aside a sum of 6 mil to invest in movies in the next 3 years. He hopes to shoot movie with special flavor of HK.

If there are movies that suit him he will act in them, gradually earning back his fee. He admitted that he is biased with his own company, with other big budget movie he receives from outside he will not decrease his fee at all.

Other than movies , he has plans to stage concerts in Colisuem next year, but until now he fails to get a 20-day continuous slot, he has to re apply dates for Oct & Nov 2007. In Aug next year he plans to hold concert tours outside HK first, & HK will be his last stop, estimated to be 15 shows.

In addition, he has released vcd of 'Fantasy China Live Concert' in Taiwan, summarizing his best & the making of his 19 concerts. Fans cans see the relax side of Andy, even if he cannot be like others roam about town , he plays & merry about at the backstage. He said he feels blissful this way & is already fortunate. In the additional 'Journal of the concert tour' vcd he shows off the birthday cakes he received during the concert tour. Some of the content not included online can be seen, such as sleeping with a bear at the presidential suit. But Andy is used to sleeping alone, after the photo the bear had to be left on the chair.

A Battle of Wits, a project brewed over 10 years by Jacob has some big scenes. Many locals & 800 over people were called in to shoot. It is extremely tough to control a troop of a thousand over. But the toughest person was action director Tong Wei. Said Jacob, "He is really a nice guy, he had under helpless situations knelt on the ground, begging the temp actors to cooperate." As there are too many people, just one person smiling away they had to re take the scene.

Other than Andy who was injured, there were workers who leapt from 11 m high wall fell out of the cushion, the concussion was so bad that some dropped into coma. There were workers who sustained back injury after being hit by the 300+lb gate.

On the actors performance, Jacob praised highly Korean actor Ahn Sung Ki professional, he was in the scene even when he was not on the set, he was not fussy with food & had no special requests. Though a girl, Fan Bingbing can endure hardship. But the most unforgettable was the rumor that Andy was gunned down in China, when the reporters called him to confirm, Andy was beside him, so he quickly clarified the matter with them.

His daughter visited him during shooting, & accompanied him to see the scenes, He has not gone back to Canada for a long time, his family members of course blame him as they do not know what he is doing. His children will be v proud to know he is a director, but he would rather they take him like a commoner.

SOURCE: WEN WEI PO

Haken Li releases a new album today, at the album pre-launch organized by the record company, he was continuously asked by the emcee & the media on his marriage, as his wedding date is rumored to be this month. He abides to his principle, flatly refused to disclose any details. He claims Nov is an important month for album release & promotion....

From Nov 1 to Nov 4, A Battle of Wits movie distributor Hua Yu will hold a large-scaled activity called 'In Search of, & Paying respect to Mo Zi.' in Shandong. Director Jacob is leading the pack in attendance. Following that, all the leads will assemble in Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, & HK in the middle of the month for movie premiere.

The movie featuring Andy Lau, Ahn Sung Ki, Fan Bingbing, Nicky Wu, Choi Si Won, Wu Ma, Qian Xiao Hao & other stars coming from the Asia region, will hit the street at end of the month, the historical war epic movie is a US $16mil investment.

A B O W is differs from the usual packaging of ancient beauty of China, it dwells on righteousness, self-sacrifice, love & anti-war. Jacob will go personally to the Shandong trip, another heat wave is expected.

As the soul person of the movie, Andy, as Ge Li, trust in Jacob made many in the mainland who are unfamiliar with Jacon wondering. In 1986 Andy had played lead role in Jacob's first movie , China's Last Eunuch, the movie was nominated for the Best Director at the 8th HK Film Awards.

Mo Gong is a movie Andy has waited for 10 years, nothing will make him waver in the presentation of the movie, "This is how I feel best in Jacob. We work again 20 years later, this is our destiny!"

here is the link,

http://s132.photobucket.com/albums/q3/kklee129/?action=view¤t=DSCF1219.flv

News as rported yesterday.

Andy always indulges himself completely when he is working. During shooting of A Battle of Wits, other than sustaining injury from jumping onto a bridge, there were many other dangerous instances he was put into, unknown to others. 2 days after his injury, in a scene, he was suspended upside down & was almost burnt on the body. Andy's working attitude gained respect from all the workers coming from China, HK, Korea & Japan. When the camera was off, the Japanese cameraman yelled, "Ichiban!"

As follower of Mo Zi, Ge Li has a self sacrificial spirit. On his first attempt to save the Liang City, he knew that by jumping to the ground he will die, yet he still dived down to the suspended bridge. He had to smash 2 big urns filled with oil, using fire to chase away the enemy. He injured himself while flying down. Though the director asked him to rest, the next day he turned up to resume work. Leg still on bandage, he was suspended upside down, to shoot a scene of fire burning.

Director Jacob had prepared fire extinguisher, cushions & other safety measures. Andy's costume was coated with fire-proof gel. In addition, wrapping paper was used to wrap his injured leg as extra barriers. The workers climbed up the tall ladder with the fire extinguisher ready, so as to put out the fire the moment the director shouted 'Cut'.

Never had they expected Andy's costume caught fire so easily, the moment the fire was lighted, which was supposed was burn only one leg, spread to the other. It got bigger, spreading up to his body. The director & workers were very anxious, shouted "Fire Fire!" But the worker who controlled the direction of the wire failed to control its direction, it was a scene of panic & screaming. Andy was seen trying hard to swing himself nearer, so as to let the worker put out the fire. When he was lowered, he forced out a smile, "Really a little scared just now.. haha."

Andy claimed toughness in shooting this movie is not because he still work even though he was injured, as during suspension the injured part was all wrapped & protected, he is not afraid of further injury, also under wire he did not need to use force, he needed only to use his hand to balance himself somersaulting.

The toughest thing is the minus zero deg temp, even after wearing screen costume he still felt cold. He had to apply the fire-proof gel, this gel was stored under zero deg temp, he had to apply it below the costume & legs, it was like coldness on top of coldness, eating ice cream in the North Pole! The cold penetrated his body, his limbs were stiff, & were not as agile. It was after the burnt that he felt some warmth. He did not even know the extent of fire, until the workers yelled then he saw both legs were on fire & climbing upwards, "At first I was not too worried, I continued acting, when the director shouted Cut & worker spraying on my body then I got scared, what if it continued to burn? Thus I used all my might to swing near to the worker, really it was quite dangerous."

Andy said he had shoot movie so many years & faced with a lot of dangerous situations, the most dangerous is not this, previously there was an explosion scene, the director told him to enter the set after the explosion, but the force was so great, a second late he would have been burnt. The saddest thing was at the explosion scene, he was not visible, as there was smoke everywhere, only a man in black running! "I was silly, insisting on doing it without a double. This time is different, can see clearly how I jumped, how I was burnt. No way I can use a double, I knew the situation well, I can control myself, that’s way I insisted."

Wang Zhi Wen as Emperor Liang is the only true negative figure in A B O W. He is of low self esteem, is a weakling, incapable, vicious & scheming.

Jacob had known Wang since he acted as the Emperor Qin in Jin Ke Assassinating Emperor Qin. Jacob felt Wang has the right demeanor as an emperor, but before working together he had some pressure. After working together, the mutual communicated was good. Wang had humbly told Jacob that Emperor Liang being has so low esteem, yet had to act brave in front of all, he suggested to make the emperor having handicap, one leg longer than the other. Wang did not mind looking ugly, & created an emperor Liang image....

Blood Brothers, an upcoming movie directed by Peter Chen, starring Jet Li, Andy Lau & Takeshi Kenoshiro will start shooting middle of next month in China. It was rumored that Maggie Cheung was picked to be the female lead, but she showed not much of interest after reading the script , it is most probably she will turn down the offer. Media Asia which has a part in the investment of course tries hard to introduce Shu Qi. But the other investors do not share the same view. The female lead has thus until today not fixed. The investors come from China, HK, Japan, America, Korea & others, the female lead obviously should come from a foreign land, if not Zhang Ziyi it should be Gong Li!

SOURCE: APPLE DAILY
TITLE: AS A WISE MAN ANDY TAKES CARE IN HELPING OTHERS

Of late, Andy is busy with the promotion of A Battle of Wits. He was interviewed by Commercial Radio yesterday. Talking on his role as a wise man Ge Li, who uses benevolence to subdue others, in real life, is he a wise man like that too? Said, "I am not! I play tricks, I can even quarrel with others."

He added after shooting the movie, he learnt some life principles. Said, "Such as in helping others, when u want to help, but do that person really want your help? I want to help some movie persons sometimes, but that person may not want my help."

Jacob had chosen him to play the role not because of similarity in appearance, but he trusts that Andy can play the role well.

Mo Gong promotes Love & not war. This incites a lot of thoughts in him. He is till searching the answer.

He explained that he is trying his best to promote movie industry. He can tell some people can get help from him, but does not wish to see him interfere in some other ways, said, "I can tell. But I will still continue to help. As the emperor may not need help, but a lot below him need help, if I only see the emperor I will miss helping a lot of chances to help those below him."

In Blood Brothers, Andy, Jey Li & Takashi are to act as 3 sworn brothers. The female leads is said to be Maggie Cheung & Shu Qi. Production breaks 240 million rmb.

The movie is an adaptation of a Shaw brothers classic by the late Chang Che. It was acted by David Chang, Chen Guan Tai, Ti long & actress Jin Li. In it, Ti Long fell in love with Chen's wife & killed Chen. In revenge, David killed Ti Long.

Andy & Takeshi is again fighting over a woman in this new movie. Shaving bald is another challenge for the actors, as the storyline is set in the Qing Dynasty.

S.H.E's Ella raved over how friendly and playful he is - he even reached for her hand onstage and pretended to kiss it.

And Gary Cao was as excited as a little fan when he joined the Malaysian media in 'interviewing' his superstar idol.

That's Andy Lau for you, a celebrity role model for many young upstarts.

In town last weekend to attend the Global Chinese Music Awards after a three-year absence here, he was every bit the gracious big brother of showbiz.

No doubt he was the biggest winner alongside Stefanie. Each snagged five trophies.

Yet he was humble enough to acknowledge his lack of musical talent - he cannot compose music or play instruments - while emphasising that he made up for his shortcomings with hard work.

EASY-GOING

The easy-going star was also not afraid to make a fool of himself, inducing peals of laughter when he mimicked how R&B singers flaunt their falsettos.

Like an impish kid, he even did a little skip and hop on stage.

Backstage in the media room, Andy, 45, was the respectable Hong Kong Heavenly King who has sustained high popularity for over 20 years.

He talked about how he intends to enjoy life and take things slow, devoting himself to worthy projects. Next on his schedule is a Korea-China epic film, Three Kingdoms: Resurrection Of The Dragon.

Lamenting the shrinking music industry plagued by piracy and Internet downloads, he also shared his future plans of releasing singles instead of conventional albums.

'I'm working on a song for the 2008 Olympics (in Beijing) but I don't know if they'd want it or not,' he added with self-deprecating humour.

So, does he have any advice for all the newbies in the industry?

'I can only say, you should feel a sense of responsibility towards your career and your fans. Many people will be influenced by whatever you do, so it's important that you fulfil your social responsibility.'

In a (pre-recorded) TV programme on Oct 28 Andy touched on the interesting happenings during shooting of A Battle of Wits. He was attracted to the story of Mo Gong years ago, was prepared to shave for the movie. Though he wanted to produce the movie himself v much, he had no idea how to go about doing it, he was not sure to whom the copyright belongs. Only in 2003 that he received the script. He feels it suits him well, & requested, "My request is not to have costumes made of material unrealistic to the original era, but a realistic make-up."

During shooting, he had to rescue Fan Bingbing from the muddy water at a temp of minus 15 degree, he had to endure the cold for 3 days. He used the most primitive way of keeping himself warm. "I wore diver's suit to keep warm, even filled it with warm water." But as shooting went on, the water got colder, he used the most primitive method, he eased himself once in the water (pass urine)… to get a little warmth. He was v happy during shooting. In the dark he mistakenly pulled out the diver instead of Fan Bingbing

Andy's career & marriage is always a mystery, other than Ms Yu whom he had openly declared as gf before, (of yore) , is he married? Does he have a child? No one can have any proof. Andy actually likes children a lot, he has a god-daughter Elias Teng, had wanted to be the god-father of Small S's daughter. Recently the reporter interviewed Andy.

R: I heard that you have a god-daughter, tell us about it.

A: That was 10 over yrs ago, I went shooting with Wong Kwang Liang in Holland, We got to know a boss in China town, he has 2 children. Wong adopted his son while I adopted his daughter. She was bt 7 to 8 yr-old then, now she is 20 over. She was interested to enter showbiz, & was artiste under my company before.

R: As god-father u must have some pressure?

A: Of course not as the real father! Just chat with her on my personal experience & some life principles, but most of the time is just joking & playing. If I am the real father, my pressure will be great, there are things to worry about, to be responsible. But to share the growing up with own child is a lot more interesting.

R: You like to be a father so much, it was rumored that u have a family & a daughter?

A: I wish to tell you clearly here, at this moment, I am not married, I do not have any child. But to get marry & have children are important milestones in my life, also, I like children a lot, I hope to have 3 to 5 children in future. Perhaps at my age it is a bit difficult o have 5, but at least must have 3.

STEFANIE Sun couldn't stop smiling during the Global Chinese Music Awards on Saturday. And no, it’s not just because she managed to keep her winning streak alive.

At the sixth annual awards show at the Singapore Indoor Stadium, the Lion City's brightest pop export scooped up five trophies to add to her already sizeable collection.

The awards were in the categories of Most Popular Female Artiste, Outstanding Regional Artiste (Singapore) and Best Album (A Perfect Day) among others.

What gave Stefanie an added thrill, however, was that she had the chance to get up close and personal with Hong Kong superstar Andy Lau, who became the night’s other big winner by matching the singer's five-trophy haul.

Prior to the show, Stefanie was the envy of many singers and frenzied fans when she walked the red carpet outside the stadium hand-in-hand with Andy.

"I'm excited that the awards are being held in Singapore for the first time," she said, flashing her trademark toothy grin. "I feel like a host and I'm proud to welcome Andy to this big bash."

Later at the post-awards party held at The Oriental Hotel, the two held hands again, this time at the request of photographers. As Andy drew her hands to his chest, Stefanie let out a bashful giggle and said: "I feel so privileged."

And this was not even the first time the two celebrities had met, Lau having offered the singer a film role four years ago.

"Wah, he's a really warm person," the 28-year-old singer said. "We had spoken about collaborating on a movie, but at that time, I thought it was just a casual chat. Besides, my schedule has always been tight so nothing came of it."

But Andy told reporters at the party that he remains keen to work with Stefanie, be it on a music or movie project.

Then, he turned to her, saying: "You have to take care." "Oh thanks, I'm very well," she replied. "But you're so skinny. Eat more," he said with a laugh.

Movie-star svelte she may be, but Stefanie ruled out making her silver screen debut next year.

"I'm almost embarrassed to talk about my movie plans again. I’ve always said I would love to act, but it has stalled for so long because of my singing commitments," said Stefanie, adding that her new album would hit store shelves in March.

Asked what direction the new CD would take, she said: "I've always tried new things on my albums. I feel that Asians singers have more leeway to experiment, unlike in the West where, for example, if you're a hiphop artiste, you are restricted to hip-hop."

Andy may be just as free to experiment but he nonetheless dashed the hopes of fans looking forward to a new album from the versatile entertainer.

"My plans for my singing would be to put out singles, rather than an entire CD," he said. "I think that's the direction of the music industry now."

Citing the realities of piracy, a shrinking music market and the fact that record companies are less inclined to spend on promotional activities, Andy said artists have to find new outlets for their songs.

"If I make music, it will be a tie-up with other activities," he said. "For instance, when I do a movie, then I'll release a single in relation to that movie."

Andy's current project is writing a song for the 2008 Olympics in Beijing. "I don’t know whether they'll pick it, but I'm doing it anyway," he said, laughing.

It’s been a rewarding year for Andy. The 45-year-old was honoured as the Asian filmmaker of the year at this month’s Pusan International Film Festival in South Korea for his efforts to promote new Asian film talent.

What is his advice to the younger stars who look up to him? "My advice to them," he said with a smile, "is have a sense of responsibility towards your career and your fans. When you have a lot of fans, every action of yours becomes an influence."

This year's Global Chinese Music Awards, honouring the best in Mandopop, were supported by radio stations in seven major Chinese markets, namely MediaCorp Radio Y.E.S. 93.3FM (Singapore), Hit FM (Taiwan), 988 (Malaysia), RTHK (Hong Kong), East Shanghai Station (China), Beijing Music Radio Station FM97.4 (China) and Guang Dong Radio Station (China).

The show, which clocked in at almost four hours and included the participation of more than 40 regional celebrities, saw the handing out of awards in 28 categories.

Trailing the night's biggest winners Stefanie and Andy were Hong Kong singer Eason Chan, with four trophies.

There were, however, a few absentee award-winners, such as Taiwan's Jay Chou and Jolin Tsai, Charlene Choi — one-half of the Hong Kong pop duo Twins — who had fallen ill, and Singapore’s JJ Lin.

Next year's Global Chinese Music Awards will be held in Hong Kong.

signature run....

Both Andy & Stefanie Sun won 5 awards each at the 6th GCMA. Coincidentally both belong to EMI record company (Sun is under Capital, a subsidiary of EMI), both of them brought glory to the company with 10 awards.

Both of them walked the red carpet together, & looked set to shine for the night. Interestingly the awards they got are similar in categories, being regional Outstanding Singer award, Best Album, one of the Gold Songs, Most Popular Singe, & final top 5 singers.

Throughout the night, cheers & screams from Sun's & Andy fan's filled the stadium. Other than fans of SHE & Super Girl, most of the time screams come from these 2 camps.

TITLE: WHY IS EVERYBODY SHOCKED WHEN I WIN AN AWARD?

In music arena 20 over years, unsurpassed Andy swept 5 awards at the ceremony, he said he is not tired of getting awards.

"I treasure each & every award, I am not sure which one will be my last one. Actually I like music a lot, a pity I do not have a lot of talent in it, for 20 over years I am not able to do any better. But all of you still like me so much. You are all marvelous!"

Andy is the super star of the event, each time he ascended the stage the fans turned frenzy, especially at the last award, Most Popular Singer, the stadium atmosphere was raised to the boiling point. The screams continued for 2 minutes, before he had a chance to speak.

His first word was, teasingly, "Why are you so shocked? I win the award, why is your reaction so strong?"

He disclosed later that he had applied to hold concerts in Coliseum but there is no news yet. "I plan to come to Singapore next year." If he cannot hold a concert, he will hold a small scale one for the fans. Heavenly king is good at capturing hearts, good tactic!

SOURCE: ZAO BAO

At the end of the award ceremony, Andy kissed Ella's hand, when asked, she quipped, "Who knows! Maybe Andy is taking advantage! Joking only, actually he was teasing me, it was just an action, he did not touch the hand. Once in a variety show, he was the prince, & I was the princess, when I pretended to kiss him, he was so afraid, haha! He is very warm, he is the superstar among the stars."

Andy lives up to his name of a veteran idol-singer of 20 over years, at the 6th GCMA post award celebration, he was the target of phot-taking from all the singers & media interview. But he is v humble, he self deprecated, "The singers I sign on never get famous, the movie I invested do not sell well." This made the house broke out laughing.

Andy had invited Stefanie to go into acting 3 years ago, he has a good storyline that suits her. He invited her agin, wishes she can consider, but no matter how, she just would not like to act. He said, "This person is very queer! No meas no." She however introduced to him a new director from Singapore. Looking at paper-thin Sun, Andy said, "You have to take care of your body, youre too thin." Sun quickly replied, "I'm ok I'mok."

Rainie Young who also takes Andy as Idol, was v excited to see Andy & Eason. She was crowned Best Newcomer.

China Super Girl Lee Yu Chun said since young she likes to listen to Andy's songs, Andy is the one she likes the most at this gala event. But being one of her kind, she will only buy cds to listen she will not have a photo with Andy or talk to him.

Cao Ge who won Outstanding Singer in Malaysia became the dj of a radio station to interview Andy, he has admired Andy for years, at the interview he was so tense that he talked incoherently several times.

Ella, a member of SHE who is nominated for the Golden Melody awards has been excited for days. On the stage, she played with Andy, splashing confetti on him.

Andy had not been to Singapore for 2 years, he came a day early to meet his fans, & experienced again the loyalty & love his fans gave him . On his personal plan, Andy said he has entered to an 'enjoyment stage', the newcomers performance are not bad at the present day, said calmly, "The things I wish to do I have done, so I wish to try new things if there is, otherwise I will slow down my steps, there is no gain or loss."

He teased that the only thing he cannot hit is as artiste manager, "I have not sign on a famous artiste, so all of you better don't come to my company!" On the bleak market of album, he has plans to invite HK singers of different era to release songs, he is wrtign songs for BJ Olympics.

Andy won the most of 5 awards at GCMA. Is Eason Chan with 4 awards threatening his position? Replied Andy, "I chat with all the singers, telling them we should put in more for Chinese music." Eason interrupted, "I shall learn from Andy, it is boring that Andy gets Asia Pacific Singer every year, I shall be more active." Andy smiling said, "I shall ride on the waves, I won't fight but follow the trend. Easons Mandarin album is v good, I had introduced it to the Taiwanese people."

SOURCE: SING TAO

Nicholas Tse was named winner of Best Supporting Actor with the movie New Police Story @ the 15th China Golden Chick Hundred Flower Film Festival, beating Andy Lau & other nominees.

6th GCMS was held for the first time in Singapore. In the 4 hr long ceremony 71 awards were given put. The result was based 60% from online voting worldwide , & 40 % from the professional judgment of the various stations....

From singing at the finale with confetti flying, to group photo-taking, to the last wave, & at the post award bash.

DATE: 29 OCT 2006
SOURCE: APPLE DAILY/CHINA TIMES/SINA.COM
TITLE: THE 6TH GLOBAL CHINESE MUSIC AWARDS

6th Global Chinese Music Awards was held at the Indoor Stadium in Singapore last night. Andy Lau, Stefanie Sun each with 5 awards were the most glorious. The annual event, which started in 2000,is a collaboration of 7 Chinese radio stations---China's Beijing Music Station RM97.4, Guangdong Radio Station, & East Shaghai Station, HK's RTHK, Taiwan's Hit FM, Malaysia's 988 & Singapore YES 93.3 FM

Stefanie Sun who won Most Popular Female Singer award the 3rd time as her idol Andy walked red carpet with him. Andy said the feeling was soft & 'electrifying', while Stefanie quipped she too could feel the sparks, as Andy is good at giving out sparks! She even sought a kiss from Andy after winning the award!

Other winners included Twins Gillian Chung, S.H.E, Janice, Justin Lo & others. Only Gillian was present as Charlene Choi was down with diarrhea & giddiness. Eason Chan & Joey Yung won Best Male & Female Singer Award respectively. Eason had 3 awards following behind Andy.

Andy was named winner of the following: Regional Outstanding Singer Award ( Hong Kong)
Gold Song (one of the 20) ---All About Love
Best Album (one of the 3)---All About Love
Top 5 Male Singer
Most Popular Male Singer

For 2 over years Heavenly King Andy Lau had not come to Lion City, Singapore. 100 over loyal fans coming from all ages waited 3 hrs for him at the airport, just to get a 30 sec glimpse of him!
Yesterday (Oct 27) at 2:03 pm Andy arrived in Singapore from HK via CX 739. Despite the afternoon flight, at noon time a group of loyal Hua Zai fans were already waiting at the arrival hall of Terminal 1 .

Fans aged between 4 to 70 over, 2 were monks, believed to be from Fu Hai Shi monastery. Andy is a strong supporter of Re Ci Hospital annual fund raising activity.

At 2 over pm, on the touch down of the plane, fans crowded the barricaded area of the hall. They came prepared with placards, banners showing support for Andy. Some with flowers & posters of the newly launched Cantonese album Voice.

The organizer had publicly announced the flight details this time, it was scheduled to be at 2:20 pm, but turned out 20 min earlier. As Andy was spotted coming out leisurely from the gate, the fans could not control the excitement, all of a sudden it was chaos.

Andy stepped out at 2:45 pm, escorted by 6 to 7 'body guards'. In sports wear & jeans he was all smiles as he walked out. Fans presented him with lily flowers, screamed his name & 'I Love U'. A warm Andy did not forget to wave & stopped to shake hands with them. As what a real Heavenly King does!

From the airport to hotel, at the interview, he said, "Very happy to see my fans again!"

Nicky Wu played the role of an archer in A Battle of Wits, to a person who studied in sports school before this is no problem for him at all.

On being said to be like the sharp archer Orlando Bloom in Lord of The Rings, he said, "No so. He belongs to the handsome version, I was all dirty and dark, also I am not as sharp, I pulled my thumb always when I shoot."

During shooting the temperature dropped to as low as minus 10, there was also sand storm, it is no wonder he said shooting ABW is his toughest. But he is glad that everyone had one ambition to shoot, no one grumbled, shooting was serious, in Asia it is hard to find a movie as commanding as this.

Nicky acted opposite Andy the most. Despite the first collaboration, he has no pressure, rather they communicated very well & were happy. On Korean actor Choi Shi Won, he said he is below 20 yet he collaborated well with him.

Nicky knew Jacob for a few years, this is the first time they worked together, their character are quite similar, v persitent & idealistic. He knows he director has done his homework well, 4 to 5 yrs ago he had discussed the role with him. Nicky has 2 sets of Mo Gong comic books 15 years ago, one of the set was lent to Jacob, until now he has not returned!

During shooting of big scenes involving army & civilians it was difficult to control the situation, action director got v anxious at time & threw temper, did the director (Jacob) scoled people? Said Nicky, "He is afraid to look ugly, he won't throw temper, sometimes a scene took 2 days to complete. The whole movie took 5 mths to shoot." Jacob has asked Nicky to shoot more movies, Nicky quipped, "I hope too, but not one movie in 10 years!"

Invested at 160 million, adapted from Japanese comic book Mo Gong, 10 year of planning by director Jacob Cheung, a collaboration of actors from Korea, China, HK, TW, shot for 3 months, how the Mo disciple used tactics to counter the attack, it is like in real life, how to use our brain to sell.

In it, there are scenes of heads & hands chopping, arrow piercing with blood spluttering, classified as R-rated, but killing need not necessarily see real blood, 160 million not just using bloody gel to show blood, for fire it was real fire, a thousand real people attacking the city, a thousand real horses, then it has something to account for.

Lead Andy Lau, even injured himself while on wire, no stunt was used. A scene of saving others in the fire almost had his face burnt. He could even joked, "Luckily the face is saved." Every scene came real, everyday the work was like a real test, even experienced Andy was being tested.

As Ge Li, just him alone to help Liang City 4,000 civilians & army to counter 100,000 strong army from Zhou kingdom.

The temp dropped to minus 3 during shooting. The fire-protective gel had to be kept at a low temperature, when Andy was spread with the anti-fire gel, he was like being sealed with ice. In addition, it took time to apply. He had to wear a thermal to keep warm, then another layer of divers suit to keep the heat, & another layer of anti-fire suit. In between the later 2 a layer of gel was applied. Finally, a few coats of anti-fire gel was applied on the outermost layert, covering him from head to toes. Just this step alone, took a few hours & 3 workers to do.

To prevent being burnt, Andy wrapped his head with a tower coated with many layers of gel, he wore a pair of ani-fire gloves. Other than 2 sides of the face, he was all covered with the gel. He was most worried about his face during shooting.

Though he need not have his body on fire, there was a scene where he dived to save others. There was fire everywhere, the temp was high. "Though my hands were covered with the gel, it was really hot. After shooting the hands were scorched red. But compared to the temporary actors, whose body was on fire, mine is a small matter." Even then, there were a few times when his clothes caught fire, the workers used fire extinguisher to put out the fire.

In order to make the war scene came alive, the director used highest record of 1,300 to shoot a battle scene. There was another where corpses were buried, a hundred over temp were used.

As corpse was not supposed to move, after being tossed into the pit they had to be stacked one on top of the other. It was difficult to control the shooting due to communication. After a few takes it was still not satisfactory. Andy on seeing this got angry, "It is so tough for the temp to be stacked on top of the other, a small mistake it has to be re taken, I shouted to them to be cooperative. finish the scene fast…"

Andy had actually read the comic book 5 to 6 yr ago, he had wanted to buy the copyright, but the right was bought by his classmate during artiste training school, Jacob Cheung.

"We had not contacted each other for years, & had never work together before. 2 yrs ago he called me actively, never had I thought it was for Mo Gong."

The actual person is bald, with thick eye-brows, & has no look, is also short. It is a great difference from Andy.

"I had asked Jacob, he said it does not mean he must get someone looking like that to shoot. He does nto even said I need to shave. I kept the moustache to look more like man from the wilderness."

During the Warring period, 7 countries fought among themselves. The story is about Zhao Kingdom having to defeat Liang City before it could attack Yan Kingdom. Hundred & thousands of horse scenes are unavoidable.

This scene of fire attacking the city needed 5 cameras, to take care of the fire sources, they spent a whole week.

Andy looking frightening but had no danger, compared to the temp, the latter was so courageous.

Andy's left pants was burnt, the worker helped to put out the fire.

Andy all alone led the army to counter the enemy, his merit was beyond the King, yet he was chased out by the King later.

The temp who acted as assassin to kill Andy, was full of emotion.

Body covered with blood gel, Andy still needed to fill his stomach first.

The temp played cards, nosy Andy looked on, star & temp all merged into one, no wonder when the temp was not properly treated he raised his voice.

Nicy Wu, champion archer of Liang City, was not known, Ge Li admired his talent & entrusted him to lead the archers.

Fan Bingbing daughter of a horse man, on Ge Li who for righteousness came to save the city was full of respect & trsut, with an element of love. Fan was made dumb with poison, during the flooding of the city, she couldn't shout because of no voice.

In celebration of its 39th anniversary, TVB is staging a All Stars TVB Anniversary Special on Nov 4. A press con was held yesterday. Carol Cheng & her long time beau Li Fang are selected as the chief of the female & male singers respectively, while the leaders are Andy Lau, Kelly Chen, Haken Li & Joey Yung.

Leon was the mysterious guest of the press con, he recorded the promotion trailer with the other singers. On his upcoming collaboration with Andy at he sahow, he said, "I wish to keep it a secret, so the audience won't have too much expectation, otherwise I will have a lot of pressure."

Has his icy relationship with Andy been broken? He replied, "Even volcano is broken! Where is the ice? There is nothing between Andy & I, but I have not seen him for a long time, other than the TVB show."

The 15th Golden Chick Hundred Flower Film Festival opens tonight @ Hangzhou. A rehearsal was held lat night. Pic show the glamorous stage & dance of the Xinjinag tribe. The theme of the festival is 'New Century New Films'. The main activity includes Golden Chick International films exhibition, HK & TW films exhibition, China new movies introduction, China movies forum & others.

The nominees were announced in Sept, on the lists are Zhang Yimou, Feng Xiao Gang, Stephen Chow, Jet Li, Jacky Chan, Andy Lau, Zhang Ziyi, Cherrie Young & others. Traditionally nominees will attend the event. This year, however, the organizer was faced with obstacles in inviting them. Most of the stars because of tight schedule are not able to come. (Andy is nominated for Best Actor title with 2 movies)

Those confirmed coming included Sun Le, Sun Nan, Zero Band, Cai Qin, Li Ku Yi, Gigi Leung, Chen Hao, Fan Bingbing… etc.....

Next year the event is aid to be at Harbin, & brought forward to Sept, at end of summer & beginning of fall, so as to avoid the harsh winter.

Andy had said before that he wishes to collaborate with Aaron. At the radio interview yesterday, Aaron said he admires Andy a lot, & praised that both of them are 100 marks artistes. Andy is always so hardworking, as everyone can see. He is still unmarried, so Aaron gives him 100 marks. Aaron himself is about the same as Andy, he is also not married, of course is also a 100 marks artiste. He feels that when one marries, some marks should be deducted. He understands why Andy is still unmarried, he believes this is because Andy still has a lot of things he wants to try & to have breakthrough, this takes time & needs sacrifice.

24/10 @ 01:30PM
SOURCE: THE NEW PAPER
TITLE: CHINESE STARS GRAB LIMELIGHT FROM KOREAN STARS
HEAVENLY KINGS ROLE AT THE EVENT USUALLY DOMINATED BY KOREANS

ANDY Lau had every reason to grin from ear to ear. As The Chosun Ilbo reported, the Hong Kong Heavenly King was the 'biggest winner' at the 11th Pusan International Film Festival.

Or the 'toast of the town', according to Associated Press.

After all, Andy, 45, not only snagged the prestigious Asian Filmmaker Of The Year award, but also made headlines all over the world for the past two weeks.

Oddly, it was he and two other Hong Kong Heavenly Kings - Aaron Kwok and Daniel Wu - who hogged the limelight at an event traditionally dominated by Korean stars.

Held annually at the South Korean port city of Busan (modern spelling of Pusan), the nine-day festival is said to be the biggest in Asia.

Ending last Friday, it attracted some 170,000 movie-goers, 5,000 film-makers, actors and distributors, and 300 foreign journalists.

Last year, the festival drew top Hong Kong stars like Jackie Chan and Sammi Cheng, but this year, the Chinese representation is the strongest so far.

Two babes - Hong Kong actress Charlie Young and China's Zhou Xun raised the glam factor higher.

And the biggest award winner of the festival is - you guessed it - a Chinese director.

Malaysian Chinese Tan Chui Mui bagged an international movie critic's award and the Best New Asian Filmmaker award for her film, Love Conquers All.

The curious phenomenon inspired some China-based media to coin the term 'Chinese Wave', while Korean counterparts criticised their stars for making little impact.

So, was the Chinese presence mere coincidence or a deliberate move?

No one knows for sure.

But the triumph of the Hong Kong Heavenly Kings was unmistakeable.

Andy, for one, charmed fans and media during his stay.

Besides receiving the coveted trophy, he also met Korean veteran actor Ahn Sung Ki, who stars opposite him in the war flick A Battle Of Wits, in a dialogue session.

Then, Andy joined pan-Asian babe Maggie Q and gongfu star Sammo Hung in announcing their new Korea-China epic film, Three Kingdoms: Resurrection Of The Dragon.

Andy spoke about his success and failure as an actor-turned-producer with 110 films to his name. His first business venture, TeamWork Motion Pictures, made a HK$40 million ($8.1m) loss.

'I had to make so many movies after that to make up!' he joked.

More recently, he spearheaded the Focus First Cuts project as a showcase platform for young film-makers from China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore and Malaysia.

One of them is Chinese director Ning Hao's comedy, Crazy Stone, which has become China's most successful homegrown release, grossing over US$2 million ($3.1m). It was also the closing film at the festival.

Andy said: 'I hope to continue to be a big star, but I also hope others (will) become bigger stars than I am.'

After announcing his upcoming movie Three Kingdoms, 2 days ago in denim cowboy look, accompanied by 2 assistants, Andy appeared @ Shanghai Putong airport. He was said to be there for a commercial, there was no media interview, he was in simple & easy attire.

SOURCE: TA KUNG PAO/WEN WEI PO/MING PAO/CHINA TIMES
TITLE: GOLDEN HORSE ANNOUNCED NOMINATIONS

Nominations for the 43rd Golden Horse Awards were out yesterday. Perhaps Love has the highest, with 12 nominations, including Best Director, Best Actress & Best Film. The recent hot favorite After This Our Exile (Fsther & Son) has 7, Aaron Kwok who was last year Best Actor is again nominated for the same title. The Banquet & horror movie Silk have 5 nominations each.

Though Andy has none of his own movie for nomination, his status as movie producer has excellent results, Crazy Stone, a movie he invested nabbed 4 nominations, including Best Film, Director, Original Screenplay & Edition. The brings glory to Andy. He feels happy for Ning Hao & congratulates him. He hopes movies by this batch of new directors can participate in all awards, being nominated is an acknowledgment of work.

Ning Hao indicated he is not sure if he can go to TW to attend, he has always admire Johnni To, if he has a chance to chat with him he will be happy, he has never thought he can compete the title of Best Director with him, & is extremely excited. He has however prepared the acceptance speech, he will thank Andy Lau who gave him the chance. This is the 2nd time after Fruit Chan that Andy produce a glorious result in helping to cultivate a new director.

Andy will not be able to attend as work has already been set for him that day.