Thursday, February 24, 2005
It's me - just can't keep away from this place.. hee hee hee!
Still working hard on the new site, but will keep dropping by with the odd piece here and there that catches my eye.
Anyway, noticed this excellent preview article from this week's TVB Weekly, so just couldn't help but share it with everyone. There are some gaps, so bear with the dots because its hard to read from the web version. Hopefully, there will still be a copy of the real thing in the shops on Sunday when I go to Chinatown!
[TVB Weekly Issue 402 - 22/02/05]
Cover Story - The Show Must Go On
This is the motto that 'big sister' Liza Wang deeply believes in. It means that no matter what the situation, everything has to carry on.
In the same light, this is also what TVB deeply believes in and regardless of past performances, the show must go on and they will continue to bring the best productions to their viewers.
In 2004, shows such as "To Catch the Uncatchable" and "War and Beauty" were greatly welcomed by the audience, but TVB's production department does not live in the past as they have already started the hard work in bringing plenty of new ideas to life in the form of captivating dramas. They understand that ratings are important, but what is paramount is bringing entertainment to you, the viewer - making you laugh out loud or shed an emotional tear as each scene reaches out to you.
Led by Liza herself, here is a preview of some of the great shows that TVB has in store for this year that encompasses all. "TVB 2005 Showdown" has invited the support of the leading cast members to reveal some secrets behind forthcoming productions.
My Sassy Mother-In-Law (Translated title)
Producer: Kwan Wing Chung
Script: Choi Suk Yin, Leung Yan Dung
Cast: Liza Wang, Myolie Wu, Bosco Wong, Christine Ng, Shek Sau
Synopsis:
In the Qing Dynasty, there was a bossy princess (Liza Wang) who married into a noble family, but still exerted her influence. Whilst choosing a wife for her son Mau Chun (Bosco Wong), she accidentally marries him to Tin Lik (Myolie Wu), who is the daughter of a gang leader. Thus begins the battles between mother and daughter-in-law with the son stuck in the middle, having to win the affections of his wife as well as keeping his mother happy, playing the sympathetic one. However, he is actually a great martial artist who is hiding a secret from them all. What is this secret? And what will happen to the rowing duo? You'll have to wait and see....
Liza:
"I haven't filmed a comedy for a while now and this series was quite interesting. When they designed the characters, they let their imaginations run riot and I am always being sprayed with rice and water. The character is actually much like myself and is very bossy, but actually she is very direct as well. I hope the audience will both love and hate her!"
Bosco:
"The best thing about the show is Liza because I have never seen her so bossy. On the other hand, her character also has some very feminine qualities about her and it is this soulful inner acting that is great to watch."
Myolie:
"The deepest impression for me was filming an argument scene with Liza that lasted three hours. We were both very absorbed and the lines were very piercing, so after we finished, everyone gave us a round of applause."
Healing Hands III
Producer: Chik Kei Yi
Script: Chow Yuk Ming, Choi Ting Ting
Cast: Gigi Lai, Bowie Lam, Moses Chan, Lawrence Ng, Bernice Liu, Melissa Ng
Synopsis:
Doctor Ching Chi Mei (Lawrence Ng) fought alongside his girlfriend Ho Sum Yin during the SARS epidemic, but after the disease was eradicated Sum Yin is fatally injured in an accident that left Chi Mei falling deep into depression. Luckily, he receives comfort from pathologist Shum .. Ching (Gigi Lai) and regains his confidence. As for Doctor Lai Kwok Chu (Bowie Lam), he has split up with his lawyer girlfriend, but soon finds himself between the affections of bone specialist (Melissa Ng) and junior doctor Tsang Suk Kei (Bernice Liu). This instalment of the show will also look into various conditions from a professional angle, including Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis and SARS, indicating the effects and causes of the illness and raising the profile of these ailments.
Gigi:
"This is the first time I have played a pathologist, but it wasn't too difficult. However, I had to do some autopsies and despite not being too scared, sometimes duirng the night I did have some nightmares!"
Bowie:
"For me, filming 'Healing Hands' lets me pretend to be a middle class person and drive my dream car, a Maserati Spider. It was a titanium silver one too, so I had my fun! As for my character Henry, after so many experiences, he has reached the stage where he wants to settle down, but he knows that his love for Melissa is only on the surface and they cannot be together. This is quite reflective of the relationship troubles of the middle classes."
Yellow Earth Great Plains (Translated title)
Starts filming beginning of May 2005
Producer: Chik Kei Yi
Script: Chow Yuk Ming
Cast: Moses Chan, Bowie Lam, Charmaine Sheh, Ada Choi, Sonija Kwok, Kenny Wong
Synopsis:
Set in the 1920's and 30's, the story is set in a village nestled in the yellow earth of the higher plains, where the villagers make their living by making fireworks... this gradually brings fortune to some of the residents as well as complications to their simple life. Originally, there were just two families living in the village, the Lams and the Chois, where the Lams were the original inhabitants and the Chois were accepted after they offered to help with the firework trade. All was fine, but after a while, there were disagreements between Lam descendent (Bowie Lam) and Choi descendent (Ada Choi) and a struggle for power begins to appear.
Chik Kei Yi:
"In the show, Moses will be playing a Choi family descendent and he will be arch rivals with Bowie. He is big and strong enough to play a northerner and fits the role exactly. His character is both good and evil as he will do anything to seek his vengeance. The conflict and fighting in this gives the feeling of a male version of 'War and Beauty'."
Ada Choi:
"I have just been in a meeting about this and have heard a little of the plot., I really like the story, so I hope to start filming soon."
The New Legend of Ah Wong (Translated title)
Producer: Wong Wai Sing
Script: Lau Choi Wan
Cast: Jessica Hsuan, Roger Kwok, Bosco Wong
Synopsis:
This show has nothing to do with the original "Square Pegs", apart from the main character 'Ah Wong' being mentally disabled. When Ah Wong (Roger Kwok) was thee years old, his mother (Michelle Yim) could no longer stand his father (Paul Chun) and left, taking him with her... After growing up, Ah Wong finds his place in society and meets his ambitious and determined 'Lo Por Jai' (Jessica Hsuan) and a success-hungry young talent (Bosco Wong). Ah Wong decides that in order to marry his beloved, he will work hard to be a useful person, so he finds his first job in the dessert cafe where his mother works and creates "Lo Por Sweet Dumplings" that spark a massive trend...
Jessica:
"The show will be keeping Ah Wong's innocence and everyone in the show will be good people, with no major bad guy. However, my character this time will not be a perfect girl because she has a little wild streak to her. I am so glad to play a bad role, so remember to tune in!"
Roger:
"Filming hasn't started yet, but I have started putting on weight, so I will eat whatever I see. I think I will put on about 20 lbs to make my appearance look naive. Luckily the character of Ah Wong is timeless, so the play the modern version of him isn't too difficult. Lo Por Jai, I am coming back!"
Ten Brothers
Producer: Poon Ka Tak
Script: Chan Wai Yin
Cast: Frankie Lam, Kenix Kwok, Lai Lok Yi, Jack Wu, Don Li, Jason Lam, Matt Yeung
Synopsis:
Orphan Chan Dai Ha (Frankie Lam) sells sweet soup for a living and has a secret admiration for rich girl Kei Hau Yee (Kenix Kwok). On a day when the skies showed strange apparitions, ten crystals descended into Dai Ha's home. He did not think much of this, but when the ten crystals were swallowed by Hau Yee, she finds herself becoming pregnant before marriage and giving birth to the ten brothers, including 'Thousand Mile Sight', 'Super Hearing Ears' and 'Strongman Three'. Each of the brothers had their special powers and using them properly, they are able to bring fortune to their family. However, the local general wants to capture the brothers and use them for his own gain, so he plots to come between them. Dai Ha and Hau Yee have to work hard to keep their family together as they meet with these difficulties.
Lai Lok Yi:
"In the show, the ten brothers each have their own oddities, so the costumes were all very different. This kind of ancient fantasy story is very rare, so we should be able to bring a fresh concept to everyone. Apart from different make up effects for each of the brothers, the special effects and props are also very unusual and in the final scene, the brothers get together to fight a big fish and as they each use their powers to the limit, it should be a great scene."
Kenix Kwok & Frankie Lam:
"To be able to film such a well-known classic story is an honour and working every day with such a big group of cast, even the daily trip to the canteen meant that there was not a table big enough for the ten brothers, the director, PA and us. It was all very happy though because we could order lots of food. There were a lot of funny incidents in the group. Once, we were rehearsing in the brothers' room and it was suddenly very smelly. It turned out that all ten had taken their shoes off and got into the bed. It was so smelly! Filming this show was very happy and the ten brothers still call us 'Mother' and 'Father'."
Yummy Yummy - Food for Life
Producer: Amy Wong Sum Wai
Script: Wong Wai Keung, Lam Siu Chi
Cast: Raymond Lam, Charmaine Sheh, Tavia Yeung, Kevin Cheng, Hui Siu Hung
Synopsis:
This is a co-production starring Hong Kong and Singapore actors. The story surrounds a TV Gourmet competition that spans Singapore and Hong Kong. The Hong Kong team - Yau Hok .. (Raymond Lam), Chow Chi Yan (Tavia Yeung), Chan Ka Lok (Kevin Cheng) and Singapore's Wong Fook Sang (Ben Yeo) meet in the competition and turn from opponents to good friends. Chi Yan meets with her half sister Chow Man Hei (Charmaine Sheh) and these five young people overcome great difficulty in search of business success.
Charmaine:
"We filmed in Singapore for about a month and a lot of Singaporean cuisine will appear in the show. My favourite was Bak Kut Teh and Pepper Crab. During filming, the best fun was during an eating competition scene and although I did not have to eat, seeing everyone else eating made me very happy. Finally I couldn't resist and ended up eating lots of satay skewers."
Raymond:
"The most unimaginable thing filming this show was having to shoot in the forests for a modern series and having to catch fish and chicken. Not only did we have to get wet in the water, we even had to do wirework! However, to have the chance to work with the Singaporean artistes and communicate in Cantonese, Mandarin, English and even Taiwanese during working was quite an unusual experience. The most important thing was of course all the food that we were able to try that you cannot usually find in Hong Kong."
Tavia:
"Whilst filming this series, I had to eat turtle and snake and I am actually quite scared of these things, but had to just grin and bear it for the show. Luckily, when I had spare time from filming in Singapore, I made the most of the Hainan Chicken Rice, in particular one restaurant where it was delicious. Their Beef Fried Noodles was also amazing, you really have to try it!"
Barber Father Stylist Son (Translated title)
Filming begins March 2005
Producer: Leung Choi Yuen
Script: Chan Ching Yee
Cast: Nnadia Chan, Kevin Cheng, Wayne Lai, Sharon Chan, Halina Tam
Synopsis:
In the holiday hotspot of Stanley, a light hearted romance and heartwarming story evolves. Chiu Tin .. (Kevin Cheng) is a famous name in the world of Hong Kong hairstylists and despite his popular salon in the heart of Central, he was born in Stanley, where his father brought up his two sons by cutting hair. Unfortunately, his expectations for his sons are too high and this puts a strain on the father-son relationship. Chiu meets with debt problems and has to move back to live with his father in Stanley, where he meets his childhood sweetheart Pang Ching (Nnadia Chan), who is a windsurfing expert as well as a mechanical engineer...
Nnadia:
"I always go to Stanley, but I don't know much about the local traditions and customs. When the producer told me that there are no discos, karaokes or triads there, then I was very shocked. I never imagined that the place was so 'clean'. Working with Kevin will be a fresh experience and as for the role, she is very suited to my personality, but the biggest challenge for me will be to go windsurfing. At the moment I am working hard to pick up exercising again."
Kevin:
"Although the show hasn't started filming yet, to be able to go to film in Stanley should be very relaxing. I think it will be very light hearted and this is the first time I am working with Nnadia, but it should be good fun. The story tells of the love between a father and son and there will be a lot of opportunity to shine as well as to convey the message that love is valuable."
The Academy
Producer: Wong Wai Sing
Script: Lee Yee Wah, Choi Suk Yin
Cast: Michael Miu, Ron Ng, Tavia Yeung, Sammul Chan, Fiona Sit, Deep Ng
Synopsis:
This is not the story of "Naja not fearing the Dragon King..." (reference "Police Cadet 1985"), but the story of Chung Lap Man (Ron Ng), who enters the Police Training Academy after his parents split up as a protest against instructing officer Lee Man Sing (Michael Miu), who he believes to have caused the break up of his happy family. In the 27 week training course, he meets many other cadets and gets on well with Lee Pak Kiu (Sammul Chan). Due to a misunderstanding, Pak sees Man Sing as an obstruction... The two men also meet waitress Ho Fa (Tavia Yeung) and rich girl Ma Hoi Lam (Fiona Sit) and embark on some romance... Who will eventually find success?
Sammul:
"Maybe because I hadn't filmed a series for a while, but I felt a little uneasy during the shoot for this series. It wasn't too hard work being a cadet, because I have experience of working for the Red Cross and marching was not a problem for me. The happiest thing was to be able to spend time living and filming in the Police Academy, it really was a memory that will last a lifetime. The must surprising incident was finding an ATM inside the school, but it was very hidden, you had to go past the principal's office and down a corridor before you saw it. It was quite unusual."
Fiona:
"Filming series for the first time broke three personal records for me. The first was only sleeping for three hours in three days, the second was putting on 10 lbs and the third was getting the best tan ever after so much location filming in the sun. Afterwards, I felt very accomplished, because at the end of it, our marching was almost as good as the real cadets and all the cast were very happy. As the weather was very hot and uncomfortable, so hot that the soles of our shoes were melting, it was very easy to suffer sunstroke."
Fantasy Hotel
Producer: Lee Tim Sing
Script: Cheung Wah Biu
Cast: Michael Tao, Melissa Ng, Wayne Lai, Woo Fung, Ben Wong
Synopsis:
This story is set around some tour guides - Kam Chi Kit (Michael Tao) is known by the nickname "Hong Kong Pass" after having been through many ups and downs in his career, from being a rich businessman to rock bottom, but still keeping a positive attitude and the belief that he can find his third bucket of gold. He meets the woman in his life Man (Melissa Ng) and they go from arguing duo to good friends who bear troubles together. One day, he meets the boss of the "Golden Hotel" Kam Kwong .. (Woo Fung), who gives him some shares in the hotel. At first, Kit wants to just sell them and make a quick buck, but Kwong instructs him that he is not allowed to sell his share of the hotel. After many difficulties, Kit finally puts his heart into making the hotel work.
Michael:
"This is the first time I have worked with Melissa and I never imagined her to be so comedic. In one scene, we had to play tour guides and lead a group of tourists from the mainland from Whampao Gardens to the train station and it was very amusing. Another scene told of an air stewardess that my character had a crush on being killed in an air disaster, leaving him with a phobia of plains. Luckily with Melissa's help, he finally overcomes this, if you want to know how, then you have to watch it."
Melissa:
"This is a light production and in the show, I keep having to chase after buses in search of a husband, but apart from running, filming for the show was not hard work really because Michael is very gallant and often gets drinks for me, so I thought it was rather relaxing. Also, we went to film for the show at many of Hong Kong's tourist attractions because it tells of us being tour guides, so there are plenty of great locations to see."
Scavenger's Paradise
Producer: Kwan Wing Chung
Script: Wong Kwok Fai
Cast: Kenneth Ma, Roger Kwok, Myolie Wu, Cherrie Kong
Synopsis:
This story is set in Hong Kong in the 50's and 60's and how two young people with different personalities meet and look out for one another. Tang Wai Cheung (Roger Kwok) and Tang Kwok Fung (??) (Kenneth Ma) are uncle and nephew, but have different characters. After the death of his parents, Cheung arrives in Hong Kong to look for Ling Sing Bo, because Ling owed his father a favour, where he meets his uncle Kwok. Because Kwok owes a large amoutn of money to the loan sharks, the two of them can only work in whatever they can to make money to repay the loan. After working through 72 different jobs, they meet Cheng Pik Wan (Myolie Wu) and Ling Fung (Cherrie Kong) and embark on their own happy love stories.
Kenneth:
"The series is full of the sights and colours of the fifties and sixties and you could say that it is a classic show from the times but in colour. The younger generation will find it quite fun and the older generation will find it very reminiscent, like looking back on their pasts. The main selling point of course is Roger, because he has become a very flexible actor and he captures the essence of Brother Cheung [ref to Cantonese opera and classic film star Tang Wing Cheung]. I learned a lot from working with him and as well as looking after his own performance, he often offered a lot of advice to me on how to act. He would go into every detail and offer a fix for every scene, so the whole show is very refined!"
Always on Standby (Translated Title)
Producer: Lo Wing Yin
Script: Ng Siu Kong, Choi Ting Ting
Cast: Linda Chung, Shirley Yeung, Ekin Cheng, Bowie Lam, Charmaine Sheh, Lai Lok Yi
Synopsis:
This series is based on the work of the Government Flying Services (GFS) and is the first such venture for TVB. The two male leads Ko Ho Fung (Ekin Cheng) and Yip Ching Wan (Bowie Lam) are the top partners in the GFS and they are made responsible for training a group of new trainees, including the intelligent but untrusting Sze Cho Ki (Linda Chung) and the talented but unfailing Wong Ka Lok (Lai Lok Yi). During the training, they all face challenges in career and romance, but they manage to face up to their difficulties and put rescuing people as their number one priority. Always on standby to face life and all it brings.
Linda:
"In the show, I play a flying services officer and have to go and rescue people on the mountain and at sea. Although the series has not officially started filming yet, we have been through a four-day training course with the services and one of the experiences was to to go into the air in a helicopter that kept rising and falling, making you feel very dizzy and nauseous, I was so scared I had to grab onto the person beside me. However, if I have the chance, then I would do it again because maybe this would help me to overcome my fear of roller coasters!"
Shirley:
"My character is a communications officer for the GFS and she is very optimistic, but because she is disabled, she has to use a wheelchair. During filming, I practised with a manual and an automatic chair and my arms are getting very strong with all that training!"
Ekin:
"In the show, I am the team leader of the flying services team and the best thing about filming this is to be able to go and train with them beforehand. Each of the cast members took turns to be hoisted from the helicopter to rescue a 'victim' from the sea. When I did not have to do this, I went to play the victim and made it all very dramatic."
Revolving Doors of Vengeance
Producer: Poon Ka Tak
Script: Lee Yee Wah, Yip Sai Hong
Cast: Ron Ng, Joe Ma, Kenix Kwok, John Chiang, Lau Dan, Ella Koon, Elaine Yiu, Ellesmere Choy
Synopsis:
The story befalls the family of Wong Yuk Ting (Lau Dan) who runs a five-star hotel chain and tells of how repaying a favour turns into seeking vengeance in a twisting story of honour and revenge. Wong Kai Kit (Ron Ng) is the youngest son in the Wong family, but his two elder brothers are not suitable heirs to the family wealth in the eyes of his father. Then Yuk Ting suddenly dies mysteriously and the business is strangely handed to a man named Ko Fung (Joe Ma) to head. He develops a romance with Bik Kei (Kenix Kwok), whom he meets in the hotel and becomes embroiled in a tangled power struggle with the family, including Kit's uncle Wing Fat (John Chiang), where deceit and plots unfold around every twist and turn...
Ron:
"My character has very distinct stages throughout the series, going from headstrong and enthusiastic into having to face Joe Ma (enemy in the show) and everything for him is a test. At first there was some pressure on me, but after chatting to the producer and the director, I began to feel more satisfied with my performance. There are a lot of surprises in this series and you have to watch out for my dad's storyline because the father-son bond will be there throughout the show."
Joe:
"You really have to be observant throughout this series, because there are a lot of different plots and it will be difficult to tell between the good guys and the bad guys. There are also many emotional scenes from the heart and it was quite difficult to portray these. Sometimes, Kenix and I found it hard to keep up with each others reactions and we would joke tht the other was a dozy spy."
The Prince's Shadow
Producer: Chui Ching Hong
Script: Ng Siu Tung
Cast: Adam Cheng, Sheren Tang, Tavia Yeung
Synopsis:
Ko Sing (Adam Cheng) is a handservant of Emperor Qianlong, but he is very smart and intelligent, often offering ideas to the emperor and therefore gains the emperor's trust and favour. Qianlong takes a fancy to Yu Yi (Tavia Yeung), so he sends Sing to go and seek her out. When he reaches the town, he finds that Yu Yi has been sold into the local brothel, owned by So Sam (Sheren Tang), who becomes a quarrelling twosome with Sing, but gradually develops feelings towards him. Later on, Sing finds out a secret about the emperor and finds his own life at risk, how will he, So Sam and Yu Yi escape with their lives? Where will Sing's affections eventually lie?
Adam:
"Haha, I was so happy to film this series because there were so many pretty girls doting on me. Tavia even had to bathe me! It was like being as charming as Chor Lau Heung. However, this man has a blind devotion to the Qianlong Emperor, so there is a serious side to it and there will be plenty of emotion for you to watch!"
Sheren:
"Filming this show was such a happy time because every day on set, we were able to mess around with Adam. There is a great advantage of working with him because he will always be clear about which position gives the best lighting and makes you look your finest. That is why whenever Adam was around, people would stand beside him, that way it will make you look even more photogenic!"
Rouge and Powder (Translated title)
Producer: Mui Siu Ching
Script: Ka Wai Nam
Cast: Sharon Chan, Anne Heung, Michael Tong, Mandy Cho, Moses Chan, Gigi Lai, Yoyo Mung, Chan Hung Lit
Synopsis:
"Powder and Rouge" is set in the background of 1930's Hong Kong, and follows how rich heir Chuk Yau .. (Moses Chan) lets the family business fall to ruins before finding his drive and determination again to put it all right. Together with his sister (Gigi Lai), they work hard to build the business, selling cosmetics and perfumes. At the same time, he also develops a three-party affair with Ng Yi Fong (Yoyo Mung) and Wong Hiu Ching (Sharon Chan). On the other hand, Wong Hiu Fai (Michael Tong) arrives at the Chuk family in search of his sister and has a romance with the Chuk younger sister Chuk Ming Man (Mandy Cho). Elder sister in law Sung Ngai Sheung (Anne Heung) also plays a part in breaking up Chuk's relationship with his family which is faced with the results of jealousy and vengeance...
Sharon:
"I play a woman who meets with a lot of bad luck on her path to romance and for me it was quite good fun because the character was very layered and gave me an opportunity to test my acting. I have really liked Siu Ching's productions all along because she is very knowlegable, take 'Better Halves' for example."
Anne:
"The character for me was a great challenge, especially as there are many more crying scenes than I have done before. The strangest thing is that sometimes when I couldn't cry, all I had to do was look back at the script and I would cry, it worked every time! Also, as the show was called 'Powder and Rouge', all the female cast members would get together to share ideas on the best cosmetics and when we found the best one, we would all start using it."
Michael:
"This time, my character is a little different from before as it is not comedic and is very serious, because he comes in search of his sister. My part isn't very big, but there is one scene that is totally focussed on me that tells of me going to the Chuk family to eat and from the first bite, the family question me endlessly. When we filmed it, we all found this scene very amusing."
Mandy:
"I have never had so many pretty costumes to wear! I never imagined that it would be so much fun, because a lot of the scenes included some great actors and I could quietly learn a lot from them. Sometimes during rehearsals, I would ask them for their experiences and I have picked up so much."
Disappearance (Translated title)
Producer: Cheung Kin Man
Script: Chu Keng Kei
Cast: Bernice Liu, Michael Miu, Melissa Ng, Kenneth Ma, Hui Siu Hung, Ben Wong
Due to his work as a police officer, Ko Chung Ching (Michael Miu) first loses his wife when she leaves him and then his son, who runs away and the two people dearest to him disappear from his life... Later on, Ching leaves the police force and sets up his own detective agency. On one hand, he helps other people find their lost items and on the other, he continues to look for clues on where to find his lost family. He has three assistants at the agency: .. (Power Chan), Man Tai Bo (Bernice Liu) and Lam Yan Yan (Vivien Yeo). Later, he meets .. (Melissa Ng) and embarks on a many stranded love affair...
Bernice:
"When I received this script, I was really happy because I really love this role and it gives me a chance to shine. As she is not a police officer, she does not have the right to do any direct investigation, so my character has to dress up a lot, like Charlies Angels, so I will have a lot of different images. I am really looking forward to playing with pinhole cameras and listening bugs as a private detective. I think everyone has this idea of what detectives do, like when women hire their services to check on what their boyfriends are up to."
Michael:
"After filming 'The Academy' as a police cadet trainer, I now move onto becoming a detective in 'Disappearance', which is a good natural progression. The role seems to be written with me in mind because he is around the same age, same personality and has a son as well. As for the selling point, then it was the lack of detective investigation shows lately and of course the chance to be the male lead! Haha! To be able to share acting experiences with the younger generation feels good. Take for example the three younger female leads in the show Melissa, Bernice and Vivien, they are all from abroad, but they are still so professional and hard working, always being fully prepared in their work."
Mr Chan of Foshan (Translated title)
Producer: Chong Wai Kin
Script: Wong Kwok Fai, Leung Wing Mui
Cast: Yuen Biao, Yuen Wah, Maggie Siu, Leung Ka Yan, Jack Wu, Timmy Hung
Synopsis:
Leung Chan (Yuen Biao) is the successor to Wing Chun Master Wong Bo Wah (Yuen Wah), but when he becomes involved in a murder case, he has to flee to Foshan. His sweetheart Cheung Kin Hei (Maggie Siu) also goes to Foshan, but is forced to marry into the Chan family. When her husband dies suddenly, she becomes a widow. When she is later reunited with Leung Chan, they work together to find out the truth behind the murder.
Yuen Biao:
"The role this time is really honourable and his martial arts skill is high, but he is not very brave really and will only fight when he has to. On the romance front, he is rather wishy-washy so he is a failure when it comes to love."
Yuen Wah:
"In the show, I have a guest role, playing Yuen Biao's master and I am very strict in the show, but despite being disciplined, he is a good master. Actually, my own master was even stricter. In those days, if he headed east, then I would run towards the west!"
The Gentle Crackdown
Producer: Lau Ka Ho
Cast: Moses Chan, Niki Chow, Yuen Wah
Synopsis:
Ming dynasty and the corrupt officials rule. Master Constable Luk Chin (Yuen Wah) falls in love with the female outlaw Fei Ying (Michelle Yim) and they have a daughter - Luk Sap Hei (Niki Chow). When she grows up, she becomes a female constable, but in the male dominated world of the court, she is often underestimated. Luckily, the newly appointed magistrate Shui .... (Moses Chan) is not a corrupt official and solves a number of unusual cases. Then there is a mysterious murder case and the evidence points towards Fei Ying. Luk and the others set about investigating to clear her name and venture deeper into the tiger's den...
The Sze Kung Files (Translated title)
Producer: Lam Chi Wah
Cast: Bobby Au Yeung ...
Synopsis:
In the Qing dynasty, there was an Official named Sze (Bobby Au Yeung) who wanted to be a good minister, but he was naturally rather clumsy. Until the day that he dreamed about the 'Pillow God', who told him about the key to solving a case. However these clues were puzzles and it was down to Sze to work them out. This god turns out to be a lingering spirit and in training Sze, it wants him to help solve a cast for it in return.
Epilogue:
Jumping out of the TV on the cover, via the rope tended to by the artistes and then back onto your screens as they all perform to their best....
This "2005 Showhand" has been completed with the help of many departments and artistes. In the same light, every series produced by TVB is the result of the hard work of every single crew member, all pushing themselves to the limit to bring you the best on your screens, so that when everyone is lavishing in family time, then you can also enjoy the entertainment and excitement brought to you by TVB.
For each series to be completed, the path is long and arduous, but cast and crew before and behind the camera all work through their difficulties, just in the hope that you can give them two words:
"Good Show!"
http://jade.tvb.com/weekly/402/index.html
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Thanks
Still working hard on the new site, but will keep dropping by with the odd piece here and there that catches my eye.
Anyway, noticed this excellent preview article from this week's TVB Weekly, so just couldn't help but share it with everyone. There are some gaps, so bear with the dots because its hard to read from the web version. Hopefully, there will still be a copy of the real thing in the shops on Sunday when I go to Chinatown!
[TVB Weekly Issue 402 - 22/02/05]
Cover Story - The Show Must Go On
This is the motto that 'big sister' Liza Wang deeply believes in. It means that no matter what the situation, everything has to carry on.
In the same light, this is also what TVB deeply believes in and regardless of past performances, the show must go on and they will continue to bring the best productions to their viewers.
In 2004, shows such as "To Catch the Uncatchable" and "War and Beauty" were greatly welcomed by the audience, but TVB's production department does not live in the past as they have already started the hard work in bringing plenty of new ideas to life in the form of captivating dramas. They understand that ratings are important, but what is paramount is bringing entertainment to you, the viewer - making you laugh out loud or shed an emotional tear as each scene reaches out to you.
Led by Liza herself, here is a preview of some of the great shows that TVB has in store for this year that encompasses all. "TVB 2005 Showdown" has invited the support of the leading cast members to reveal some secrets behind forthcoming productions.
My Sassy Mother-In-Law (Translated title)
Producer: Kwan Wing Chung
Script: Choi Suk Yin, Leung Yan Dung
Cast: Liza Wang, Myolie Wu, Bosco Wong, Christine Ng, Shek Sau
Synopsis:
In the Qing Dynasty, there was a bossy princess (Liza Wang) who married into a noble family, but still exerted her influence. Whilst choosing a wife for her son Mau Chun (Bosco Wong), she accidentally marries him to Tin Lik (Myolie Wu), who is the daughter of a gang leader. Thus begins the battles between mother and daughter-in-law with the son stuck in the middle, having to win the affections of his wife as well as keeping his mother happy, playing the sympathetic one. However, he is actually a great martial artist who is hiding a secret from them all. What is this secret? And what will happen to the rowing duo? You'll have to wait and see....
Liza:
"I haven't filmed a comedy for a while now and this series was quite interesting. When they designed the characters, they let their imaginations run riot and I am always being sprayed with rice and water. The character is actually much like myself and is very bossy, but actually she is very direct as well. I hope the audience will both love and hate her!"
Bosco:
"The best thing about the show is Liza because I have never seen her so bossy. On the other hand, her character also has some very feminine qualities about her and it is this soulful inner acting that is great to watch."
Myolie:
"The deepest impression for me was filming an argument scene with Liza that lasted three hours. We were both very absorbed and the lines were very piercing, so after we finished, everyone gave us a round of applause."
Healing Hands III
Producer: Chik Kei Yi
Script: Chow Yuk Ming, Choi Ting Ting
Cast: Gigi Lai, Bowie Lam, Moses Chan, Lawrence Ng, Bernice Liu, Melissa Ng
Synopsis:
Doctor Ching Chi Mei (Lawrence Ng) fought alongside his girlfriend Ho Sum Yin during the SARS epidemic, but after the disease was eradicated Sum Yin is fatally injured in an accident that left Chi Mei falling deep into depression. Luckily, he receives comfort from pathologist Shum .. Ching (Gigi Lai) and regains his confidence. As for Doctor Lai Kwok Chu (Bowie Lam), he has split up with his lawyer girlfriend, but soon finds himself between the affections of bone specialist (Melissa Ng) and junior doctor Tsang Suk Kei (Bernice Liu). This instalment of the show will also look into various conditions from a professional angle, including Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis and SARS, indicating the effects and causes of the illness and raising the profile of these ailments.
Gigi:
"This is the first time I have played a pathologist, but it wasn't too difficult. However, I had to do some autopsies and despite not being too scared, sometimes duirng the night I did have some nightmares!"
Bowie:
"For me, filming 'Healing Hands' lets me pretend to be a middle class person and drive my dream car, a Maserati Spider. It was a titanium silver one too, so I had my fun! As for my character Henry, after so many experiences, he has reached the stage where he wants to settle down, but he knows that his love for Melissa is only on the surface and they cannot be together. This is quite reflective of the relationship troubles of the middle classes."
Yellow Earth Great Plains (Translated title)
Starts filming beginning of May 2005
Producer: Chik Kei Yi
Script: Chow Yuk Ming
Cast: Moses Chan, Bowie Lam, Charmaine Sheh, Ada Choi, Sonija Kwok, Kenny Wong
Synopsis:
Set in the 1920's and 30's, the story is set in a village nestled in the yellow earth of the higher plains, where the villagers make their living by making fireworks... this gradually brings fortune to some of the residents as well as complications to their simple life. Originally, there were just two families living in the village, the Lams and the Chois, where the Lams were the original inhabitants and the Chois were accepted after they offered to help with the firework trade. All was fine, but after a while, there were disagreements between Lam descendent (Bowie Lam) and Choi descendent (Ada Choi) and a struggle for power begins to appear.
Chik Kei Yi:
"In the show, Moses will be playing a Choi family descendent and he will be arch rivals with Bowie. He is big and strong enough to play a northerner and fits the role exactly. His character is both good and evil as he will do anything to seek his vengeance. The conflict and fighting in this gives the feeling of a male version of 'War and Beauty'."
Ada Choi:
"I have just been in a meeting about this and have heard a little of the plot., I really like the story, so I hope to start filming soon."
The New Legend of Ah Wong (Translated title)
Producer: Wong Wai Sing
Script: Lau Choi Wan
Cast: Jessica Hsuan, Roger Kwok, Bosco Wong
Synopsis:
This show has nothing to do with the original "Square Pegs", apart from the main character 'Ah Wong' being mentally disabled. When Ah Wong (Roger Kwok) was thee years old, his mother (Michelle Yim) could no longer stand his father (Paul Chun) and left, taking him with her... After growing up, Ah Wong finds his place in society and meets his ambitious and determined 'Lo Por Jai' (Jessica Hsuan) and a success-hungry young talent (Bosco Wong). Ah Wong decides that in order to marry his beloved, he will work hard to be a useful person, so he finds his first job in the dessert cafe where his mother works and creates "Lo Por Sweet Dumplings" that spark a massive trend...
Jessica:
"The show will be keeping Ah Wong's innocence and everyone in the show will be good people, with no major bad guy. However, my character this time will not be a perfect girl because she has a little wild streak to her. I am so glad to play a bad role, so remember to tune in!"
Roger:
"Filming hasn't started yet, but I have started putting on weight, so I will eat whatever I see. I think I will put on about 20 lbs to make my appearance look naive. Luckily the character of Ah Wong is timeless, so the play the modern version of him isn't too difficult. Lo Por Jai, I am coming back!"
Ten Brothers
Producer: Poon Ka Tak
Script: Chan Wai Yin
Cast: Frankie Lam, Kenix Kwok, Lai Lok Yi, Jack Wu, Don Li, Jason Lam, Matt Yeung
Synopsis:
Orphan Chan Dai Ha (Frankie Lam) sells sweet soup for a living and has a secret admiration for rich girl Kei Hau Yee (Kenix Kwok). On a day when the skies showed strange apparitions, ten crystals descended into Dai Ha's home. He did not think much of this, but when the ten crystals were swallowed by Hau Yee, she finds herself becoming pregnant before marriage and giving birth to the ten brothers, including 'Thousand Mile Sight', 'Super Hearing Ears' and 'Strongman Three'. Each of the brothers had their special powers and using them properly, they are able to bring fortune to their family. However, the local general wants to capture the brothers and use them for his own gain, so he plots to come between them. Dai Ha and Hau Yee have to work hard to keep their family together as they meet with these difficulties.
Lai Lok Yi:
"In the show, the ten brothers each have their own oddities, so the costumes were all very different. This kind of ancient fantasy story is very rare, so we should be able to bring a fresh concept to everyone. Apart from different make up effects for each of the brothers, the special effects and props are also very unusual and in the final scene, the brothers get together to fight a big fish and as they each use their powers to the limit, it should be a great scene."
Kenix Kwok & Frankie Lam:
"To be able to film such a well-known classic story is an honour and working every day with such a big group of cast, even the daily trip to the canteen meant that there was not a table big enough for the ten brothers, the director, PA and us. It was all very happy though because we could order lots of food. There were a lot of funny incidents in the group. Once, we were rehearsing in the brothers' room and it was suddenly very smelly. It turned out that all ten had taken their shoes off and got into the bed. It was so smelly! Filming this show was very happy and the ten brothers still call us 'Mother' and 'Father'."
Yummy Yummy - Food for Life
Producer: Amy Wong Sum Wai
Script: Wong Wai Keung, Lam Siu Chi
Cast: Raymond Lam, Charmaine Sheh, Tavia Yeung, Kevin Cheng, Hui Siu Hung
Synopsis:
This is a co-production starring Hong Kong and Singapore actors. The story surrounds a TV Gourmet competition that spans Singapore and Hong Kong. The Hong Kong team - Yau Hok .. (Raymond Lam), Chow Chi Yan (Tavia Yeung), Chan Ka Lok (Kevin Cheng) and Singapore's Wong Fook Sang (Ben Yeo) meet in the competition and turn from opponents to good friends. Chi Yan meets with her half sister Chow Man Hei (Charmaine Sheh) and these five young people overcome great difficulty in search of business success.
Charmaine:
"We filmed in Singapore for about a month and a lot of Singaporean cuisine will appear in the show. My favourite was Bak Kut Teh and Pepper Crab. During filming, the best fun was during an eating competition scene and although I did not have to eat, seeing everyone else eating made me very happy. Finally I couldn't resist and ended up eating lots of satay skewers."
Raymond:
"The most unimaginable thing filming this show was having to shoot in the forests for a modern series and having to catch fish and chicken. Not only did we have to get wet in the water, we even had to do wirework! However, to have the chance to work with the Singaporean artistes and communicate in Cantonese, Mandarin, English and even Taiwanese during working was quite an unusual experience. The most important thing was of course all the food that we were able to try that you cannot usually find in Hong Kong."
Tavia:
"Whilst filming this series, I had to eat turtle and snake and I am actually quite scared of these things, but had to just grin and bear it for the show. Luckily, when I had spare time from filming in Singapore, I made the most of the Hainan Chicken Rice, in particular one restaurant where it was delicious. Their Beef Fried Noodles was also amazing, you really have to try it!"
Barber Father Stylist Son (Translated title)
Filming begins March 2005
Producer: Leung Choi Yuen
Script: Chan Ching Yee
Cast: Nnadia Chan, Kevin Cheng, Wayne Lai, Sharon Chan, Halina Tam
Synopsis:
In the holiday hotspot of Stanley, a light hearted romance and heartwarming story evolves. Chiu Tin .. (Kevin Cheng) is a famous name in the world of Hong Kong hairstylists and despite his popular salon in the heart of Central, he was born in Stanley, where his father brought up his two sons by cutting hair. Unfortunately, his expectations for his sons are too high and this puts a strain on the father-son relationship. Chiu meets with debt problems and has to move back to live with his father in Stanley, where he meets his childhood sweetheart Pang Ching (Nnadia Chan), who is a windsurfing expert as well as a mechanical engineer...
Nnadia:
"I always go to Stanley, but I don't know much about the local traditions and customs. When the producer told me that there are no discos, karaokes or triads there, then I was very shocked. I never imagined that the place was so 'clean'. Working with Kevin will be a fresh experience and as for the role, she is very suited to my personality, but the biggest challenge for me will be to go windsurfing. At the moment I am working hard to pick up exercising again."
Kevin:
"Although the show hasn't started filming yet, to be able to go to film in Stanley should be very relaxing. I think it will be very light hearted and this is the first time I am working with Nnadia, but it should be good fun. The story tells of the love between a father and son and there will be a lot of opportunity to shine as well as to convey the message that love is valuable."
The Academy
Producer: Wong Wai Sing
Script: Lee Yee Wah, Choi Suk Yin
Cast: Michael Miu, Ron Ng, Tavia Yeung, Sammul Chan, Fiona Sit, Deep Ng
Synopsis:
This is not the story of "Naja not fearing the Dragon King..." (reference "Police Cadet 1985"), but the story of Chung Lap Man (Ron Ng), who enters the Police Training Academy after his parents split up as a protest against instructing officer Lee Man Sing (Michael Miu), who he believes to have caused the break up of his happy family. In the 27 week training course, he meets many other cadets and gets on well with Lee Pak Kiu (Sammul Chan). Due to a misunderstanding, Pak sees Man Sing as an obstruction... The two men also meet waitress Ho Fa (Tavia Yeung) and rich girl Ma Hoi Lam (Fiona Sit) and embark on some romance... Who will eventually find success?
Sammul:
"Maybe because I hadn't filmed a series for a while, but I felt a little uneasy during the shoot for this series. It wasn't too hard work being a cadet, because I have experience of working for the Red Cross and marching was not a problem for me. The happiest thing was to be able to spend time living and filming in the Police Academy, it really was a memory that will last a lifetime. The must surprising incident was finding an ATM inside the school, but it was very hidden, you had to go past the principal's office and down a corridor before you saw it. It was quite unusual."
Fiona:
"Filming series for the first time broke three personal records for me. The first was only sleeping for three hours in three days, the second was putting on 10 lbs and the third was getting the best tan ever after so much location filming in the sun. Afterwards, I felt very accomplished, because at the end of it, our marching was almost as good as the real cadets and all the cast were very happy. As the weather was very hot and uncomfortable, so hot that the soles of our shoes were melting, it was very easy to suffer sunstroke."
Fantasy Hotel
Producer: Lee Tim Sing
Script: Cheung Wah Biu
Cast: Michael Tao, Melissa Ng, Wayne Lai, Woo Fung, Ben Wong
Synopsis:
This story is set around some tour guides - Kam Chi Kit (Michael Tao) is known by the nickname "Hong Kong Pass" after having been through many ups and downs in his career, from being a rich businessman to rock bottom, but still keeping a positive attitude and the belief that he can find his third bucket of gold. He meets the woman in his life Man (Melissa Ng) and they go from arguing duo to good friends who bear troubles together. One day, he meets the boss of the "Golden Hotel" Kam Kwong .. (Woo Fung), who gives him some shares in the hotel. At first, Kit wants to just sell them and make a quick buck, but Kwong instructs him that he is not allowed to sell his share of the hotel. After many difficulties, Kit finally puts his heart into making the hotel work.
Michael:
"This is the first time I have worked with Melissa and I never imagined her to be so comedic. In one scene, we had to play tour guides and lead a group of tourists from the mainland from Whampao Gardens to the train station and it was very amusing. Another scene told of an air stewardess that my character had a crush on being killed in an air disaster, leaving him with a phobia of plains. Luckily with Melissa's help, he finally overcomes this, if you want to know how, then you have to watch it."
Melissa:
"This is a light production and in the show, I keep having to chase after buses in search of a husband, but apart from running, filming for the show was not hard work really because Michael is very gallant and often gets drinks for me, so I thought it was rather relaxing. Also, we went to film for the show at many of Hong Kong's tourist attractions because it tells of us being tour guides, so there are plenty of great locations to see."
Scavenger's Paradise
Producer: Kwan Wing Chung
Script: Wong Kwok Fai
Cast: Kenneth Ma, Roger Kwok, Myolie Wu, Cherrie Kong
Synopsis:
This story is set in Hong Kong in the 50's and 60's and how two young people with different personalities meet and look out for one another. Tang Wai Cheung (Roger Kwok) and Tang Kwok Fung (??) (Kenneth Ma) are uncle and nephew, but have different characters. After the death of his parents, Cheung arrives in Hong Kong to look for Ling Sing Bo, because Ling owed his father a favour, where he meets his uncle Kwok. Because Kwok owes a large amoutn of money to the loan sharks, the two of them can only work in whatever they can to make money to repay the loan. After working through 72 different jobs, they meet Cheng Pik Wan (Myolie Wu) and Ling Fung (Cherrie Kong) and embark on their own happy love stories.
Kenneth:
"The series is full of the sights and colours of the fifties and sixties and you could say that it is a classic show from the times but in colour. The younger generation will find it quite fun and the older generation will find it very reminiscent, like looking back on their pasts. The main selling point of course is Roger, because he has become a very flexible actor and he captures the essence of Brother Cheung [ref to Cantonese opera and classic film star Tang Wing Cheung]. I learned a lot from working with him and as well as looking after his own performance, he often offered a lot of advice to me on how to act. He would go into every detail and offer a fix for every scene, so the whole show is very refined!"
Always on Standby (Translated Title)
Producer: Lo Wing Yin
Script: Ng Siu Kong, Choi Ting Ting
Cast: Linda Chung, Shirley Yeung, Ekin Cheng, Bowie Lam, Charmaine Sheh, Lai Lok Yi
Synopsis:
This series is based on the work of the Government Flying Services (GFS) and is the first such venture for TVB. The two male leads Ko Ho Fung (Ekin Cheng) and Yip Ching Wan (Bowie Lam) are the top partners in the GFS and they are made responsible for training a group of new trainees, including the intelligent but untrusting Sze Cho Ki (Linda Chung) and the talented but unfailing Wong Ka Lok (Lai Lok Yi). During the training, they all face challenges in career and romance, but they manage to face up to their difficulties and put rescuing people as their number one priority. Always on standby to face life and all it brings.
Linda:
"In the show, I play a flying services officer and have to go and rescue people on the mountain and at sea. Although the series has not officially started filming yet, we have been through a four-day training course with the services and one of the experiences was to to go into the air in a helicopter that kept rising and falling, making you feel very dizzy and nauseous, I was so scared I had to grab onto the person beside me. However, if I have the chance, then I would do it again because maybe this would help me to overcome my fear of roller coasters!"
Shirley:
"My character is a communications officer for the GFS and she is very optimistic, but because she is disabled, she has to use a wheelchair. During filming, I practised with a manual and an automatic chair and my arms are getting very strong with all that training!"
Ekin:
"In the show, I am the team leader of the flying services team and the best thing about filming this is to be able to go and train with them beforehand. Each of the cast members took turns to be hoisted from the helicopter to rescue a 'victim' from the sea. When I did not have to do this, I went to play the victim and made it all very dramatic."
Revolving Doors of Vengeance
Producer: Poon Ka Tak
Script: Lee Yee Wah, Yip Sai Hong
Cast: Ron Ng, Joe Ma, Kenix Kwok, John Chiang, Lau Dan, Ella Koon, Elaine Yiu, Ellesmere Choy
Synopsis:
The story befalls the family of Wong Yuk Ting (Lau Dan) who runs a five-star hotel chain and tells of how repaying a favour turns into seeking vengeance in a twisting story of honour and revenge. Wong Kai Kit (Ron Ng) is the youngest son in the Wong family, but his two elder brothers are not suitable heirs to the family wealth in the eyes of his father. Then Yuk Ting suddenly dies mysteriously and the business is strangely handed to a man named Ko Fung (Joe Ma) to head. He develops a romance with Bik Kei (Kenix Kwok), whom he meets in the hotel and becomes embroiled in a tangled power struggle with the family, including Kit's uncle Wing Fat (John Chiang), where deceit and plots unfold around every twist and turn...
Ron:
"My character has very distinct stages throughout the series, going from headstrong and enthusiastic into having to face Joe Ma (enemy in the show) and everything for him is a test. At first there was some pressure on me, but after chatting to the producer and the director, I began to feel more satisfied with my performance. There are a lot of surprises in this series and you have to watch out for my dad's storyline because the father-son bond will be there throughout the show."
Joe:
"You really have to be observant throughout this series, because there are a lot of different plots and it will be difficult to tell between the good guys and the bad guys. There are also many emotional scenes from the heart and it was quite difficult to portray these. Sometimes, Kenix and I found it hard to keep up with each others reactions and we would joke tht the other was a dozy spy."
The Prince's Shadow
Producer: Chui Ching Hong
Script: Ng Siu Tung
Cast: Adam Cheng, Sheren Tang, Tavia Yeung
Synopsis:
Ko Sing (Adam Cheng) is a handservant of Emperor Qianlong, but he is very smart and intelligent, often offering ideas to the emperor and therefore gains the emperor's trust and favour. Qianlong takes a fancy to Yu Yi (Tavia Yeung), so he sends Sing to go and seek her out. When he reaches the town, he finds that Yu Yi has been sold into the local brothel, owned by So Sam (Sheren Tang), who becomes a quarrelling twosome with Sing, but gradually develops feelings towards him. Later on, Sing finds out a secret about the emperor and finds his own life at risk, how will he, So Sam and Yu Yi escape with their lives? Where will Sing's affections eventually lie?
Adam:
"Haha, I was so happy to film this series because there were so many pretty girls doting on me. Tavia even had to bathe me! It was like being as charming as Chor Lau Heung. However, this man has a blind devotion to the Qianlong Emperor, so there is a serious side to it and there will be plenty of emotion for you to watch!"
Sheren:
"Filming this show was such a happy time because every day on set, we were able to mess around with Adam. There is a great advantage of working with him because he will always be clear about which position gives the best lighting and makes you look your finest. That is why whenever Adam was around, people would stand beside him, that way it will make you look even more photogenic!"
Rouge and Powder (Translated title)
Producer: Mui Siu Ching
Script: Ka Wai Nam
Cast: Sharon Chan, Anne Heung, Michael Tong, Mandy Cho, Moses Chan, Gigi Lai, Yoyo Mung, Chan Hung Lit
Synopsis:
"Powder and Rouge" is set in the background of 1930's Hong Kong, and follows how rich heir Chuk Yau .. (Moses Chan) lets the family business fall to ruins before finding his drive and determination again to put it all right. Together with his sister (Gigi Lai), they work hard to build the business, selling cosmetics and perfumes. At the same time, he also develops a three-party affair with Ng Yi Fong (Yoyo Mung) and Wong Hiu Ching (Sharon Chan). On the other hand, Wong Hiu Fai (Michael Tong) arrives at the Chuk family in search of his sister and has a romance with the Chuk younger sister Chuk Ming Man (Mandy Cho). Elder sister in law Sung Ngai Sheung (Anne Heung) also plays a part in breaking up Chuk's relationship with his family which is faced with the results of jealousy and vengeance...
Sharon:
"I play a woman who meets with a lot of bad luck on her path to romance and for me it was quite good fun because the character was very layered and gave me an opportunity to test my acting. I have really liked Siu Ching's productions all along because she is very knowlegable, take 'Better Halves' for example."
Anne:
"The character for me was a great challenge, especially as there are many more crying scenes than I have done before. The strangest thing is that sometimes when I couldn't cry, all I had to do was look back at the script and I would cry, it worked every time! Also, as the show was called 'Powder and Rouge', all the female cast members would get together to share ideas on the best cosmetics and when we found the best one, we would all start using it."
Michael:
"This time, my character is a little different from before as it is not comedic and is very serious, because he comes in search of his sister. My part isn't very big, but there is one scene that is totally focussed on me that tells of me going to the Chuk family to eat and from the first bite, the family question me endlessly. When we filmed it, we all found this scene very amusing."
Mandy:
"I have never had so many pretty costumes to wear! I never imagined that it would be so much fun, because a lot of the scenes included some great actors and I could quietly learn a lot from them. Sometimes during rehearsals, I would ask them for their experiences and I have picked up so much."
Disappearance (Translated title)
Producer: Cheung Kin Man
Script: Chu Keng Kei
Cast: Bernice Liu, Michael Miu, Melissa Ng, Kenneth Ma, Hui Siu Hung, Ben Wong
Due to his work as a police officer, Ko Chung Ching (Michael Miu) first loses his wife when she leaves him and then his son, who runs away and the two people dearest to him disappear from his life... Later on, Ching leaves the police force and sets up his own detective agency. On one hand, he helps other people find their lost items and on the other, he continues to look for clues on where to find his lost family. He has three assistants at the agency: .. (Power Chan), Man Tai Bo (Bernice Liu) and Lam Yan Yan (Vivien Yeo). Later, he meets .. (Melissa Ng) and embarks on a many stranded love affair...
Bernice:
"When I received this script, I was really happy because I really love this role and it gives me a chance to shine. As she is not a police officer, she does not have the right to do any direct investigation, so my character has to dress up a lot, like Charlies Angels, so I will have a lot of different images. I am really looking forward to playing with pinhole cameras and listening bugs as a private detective. I think everyone has this idea of what detectives do, like when women hire their services to check on what their boyfriends are up to."
Michael:
"After filming 'The Academy' as a police cadet trainer, I now move onto becoming a detective in 'Disappearance', which is a good natural progression. The role seems to be written with me in mind because he is around the same age, same personality and has a son as well. As for the selling point, then it was the lack of detective investigation shows lately and of course the chance to be the male lead! Haha! To be able to share acting experiences with the younger generation feels good. Take for example the three younger female leads in the show Melissa, Bernice and Vivien, they are all from abroad, but they are still so professional and hard working, always being fully prepared in their work."
Mr Chan of Foshan (Translated title)
Producer: Chong Wai Kin
Script: Wong Kwok Fai, Leung Wing Mui
Cast: Yuen Biao, Yuen Wah, Maggie Siu, Leung Ka Yan, Jack Wu, Timmy Hung
Synopsis:
Leung Chan (Yuen Biao) is the successor to Wing Chun Master Wong Bo Wah (Yuen Wah), but when he becomes involved in a murder case, he has to flee to Foshan. His sweetheart Cheung Kin Hei (Maggie Siu) also goes to Foshan, but is forced to marry into the Chan family. When her husband dies suddenly, she becomes a widow. When she is later reunited with Leung Chan, they work together to find out the truth behind the murder.
Yuen Biao:
"The role this time is really honourable and his martial arts skill is high, but he is not very brave really and will only fight when he has to. On the romance front, he is rather wishy-washy so he is a failure when it comes to love."
Yuen Wah:
"In the show, I have a guest role, playing Yuen Biao's master and I am very strict in the show, but despite being disciplined, he is a good master. Actually, my own master was even stricter. In those days, if he headed east, then I would run towards the west!"
The Gentle Crackdown
Producer: Lau Ka Ho
Cast: Moses Chan, Niki Chow, Yuen Wah
Synopsis:
Ming dynasty and the corrupt officials rule. Master Constable Luk Chin (Yuen Wah) falls in love with the female outlaw Fei Ying (Michelle Yim) and they have a daughter - Luk Sap Hei (Niki Chow). When she grows up, she becomes a female constable, but in the male dominated world of the court, she is often underestimated. Luckily, the newly appointed magistrate Shui .... (Moses Chan) is not a corrupt official and solves a number of unusual cases. Then there is a mysterious murder case and the evidence points towards Fei Ying. Luk and the others set about investigating to clear her name and venture deeper into the tiger's den...
The Sze Kung Files (Translated title)
Producer: Lam Chi Wah
Cast: Bobby Au Yeung ...
Synopsis:
In the Qing dynasty, there was an Official named Sze (Bobby Au Yeung) who wanted to be a good minister, but he was naturally rather clumsy. Until the day that he dreamed about the 'Pillow God', who told him about the key to solving a case. However these clues were puzzles and it was down to Sze to work them out. This god turns out to be a lingering spirit and in training Sze, it wants him to help solve a cast for it in return.
Epilogue:
Jumping out of the TV on the cover, via the rope tended to by the artistes and then back onto your screens as they all perform to their best....
This "2005 Showhand" has been completed with the help of many departments and artistes. In the same light, every series produced by TVB is the result of the hard work of every single crew member, all pushing themselves to the limit to bring you the best on your screens, so that when everyone is lavishing in family time, then you can also enjoy the entertainment and excitement brought to you by TVB.
For each series to be completed, the path is long and arduous, but cast and crew before and behind the camera all work through their difficulties, just in the hope that you can give them two words:
"Good Show!"
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