series 411: "the drive of life"

Title: The Drive of Life (Shui Yuet Fung Wan)
Casts: Damian Lau, Michael Miu, Raymond Lam, Joe Ma,
Charmaine Sheh, Jessica Hsuan, Myolie Wu, Sheren Tang, etc.
Length: 60 episodes (Cantonese) // 45 tapes (Vietnamese)
Release Date: July 2007 (Canto) // September 2007 (Viet)
Genre: Grand Production Drama/Epic Blockbuster/Family

Synopsis:
Years of upheaval, lingering love and hate
A story about the integrated Chinese family of glamour and decadence

Wah Man Hon (Damian Lau Chung Yan), Wah Man Hung (Liao Jing Sheng) and Wah Man Shek (Michael Miu Kiu Wai) were all born in mainland China. But as a result of the massive political upheaval and the profound misunderstanding among them, the three brothers have fallen out and now live apart in Hong Kong, Beijing and Canada respectively.

Hon's business goes down the pan in the aftermath of the Asian Financial Turmoil. The only saving grace is that members of the Wah's from around the world, including Hon's son Wah Chun Bong (Raymond Lam Fung) and Hung's son Wah Chun Man (Feng Shao Feng), can finally put their prejudice aside and become reconciled with one another. To realize the century-old dream of the family, they decide to work together to develop the local automobile industry.

After ten years of struggle, the Wahs have established its own brand of limousine - a brand the whole Chinese nation is proud of. They make a significant and ongoing contribution to China's automobile industry for they believe that only cars of our own will take us to a better future.

Credits: Astro On Demand

series 411: "the green grass of home"

Title: The Green Grass of Home (Yuen Loi Ji Yau Gei)
Casts: Sunny Chan, Christine Ng, Yuen Wah, Law Lok Lam, etc.
Length: 20 episodes (Cantonese) // 15 tapes (Vietnamese)
Release Date: June 2007 (Canto) // August 2007 (Viet)
Genre: Modern Drama/Environment/Enlightenment

Note: Please credit "MetalAZNWarrior" and/or this site if you should use my translation of the series' plot! I worked hard to translate it, so please don't just steal or use it for another site without my permission and/or credit. Thank you!

Synopsis:
The green love destiny already buried
Bickering enemies, calmly awaiting love's seed

After many years competing at the office, interior designer Yip Moon Chi (Christine Ng Wing Mei) not only suffers from poor health, but her relationship with her family members is no longer like before. Therefore, she decides to slow things down and moves to a village lifestyle, in the place in which she grew up as a child.

She never thought that she would suddenly meet her enemy from work, Choi Ka Sing (Sunny Chan Gam Hung), there. Even more, she couldn't have guessed that it's because of Sing that her relationship with her father, Yip Cheung Faat (Yuen Wah), improves. Later, Sing falls in love with Chi, but he still hasn't expressed his feelings for her. She then throws herself back into a materialistic life, once again competing because of her career.

Meanwhile, Faat's farmland is selected by a real estate developer. He doesn't hesitate to file a lawsuit against him and also wants a law to preserve the green countryside. It's a shame his family doesn't support him for this...

My thoughts: I really don't understand why TVB pushed up Grass's release so much. It just finished filming two or three months ago! Is this series so "special" that TVB couldn't wait to air it? To be frank, this series reminds me of At Home With Love - a totally "filler" series with a typical, reused plot. There are so many reasons why I shouldn't even bother with this series and not give it the time of day like I did with Home, but because it's from Producer Tsui, I can't let it go "like that". I don't get it. Why would TVB warehouse Producer Tsui's remarkable and high-quality The Price of Greed and air this one so fast?

I strongly believe TVB is airing Grass so soon because they want to push Suki Chui's TV debut. The self-proclaimed-"I-will-win-Miss-Hong-Kong"-but-ultimately-lost Suki is determined to become a TVB "fa dan". She won the "Female Newcomer" award from Next TV Magazine this year without the audience even seeing what her acting was like. The media called her the successor to Gigi Lai and Charmaine Sheh. Just like how she was with "Miss Hong Kong", she's very cocky about her future at TVB. She's currently being heavily promoted and filming two series (the modern War of In-Laws and the Qing costume comedy with Jordan Chan, Michael Tse, and Charmaine) at the same time. What is it about Suki that TVB seems to love so much? Hmm... they must see something otherwise they wouldn't have rushed the release of an otherwise seemingly unremarkable Grass.

Producer Tsui must be thrilled. His last series A Change of Destiny just finished airing a month ago with rather respectable ratings and good reviews and now TVB is rushing his latest production. [On a side note, I can't wait to see what he will be working on next! I think he's been busy on post-production for Grass, so he hasn't had a chance to work on anything new yet.] Grass contains the staple cast members of a production by Producer Tsui, including Kingdom Yuen and Sherming Yiu. Other cast members feature Evergreen Mak, Lai Lok Yi, Natalie Tong, Mimi Lo, Joel Chan San Chung, Ben Wong, and Leanne Li.

Grass seems like it aims to promote nature and appreciating a simpler kind of life and the environment. It will be talking about how modern life is too materialistic, how everything most people do pollute the environment, and how most people view nature only as a commodity. Grass can very well be refreshing and meaningful, but it can just as easily be overly preachy and lame. Unlike Home though, I quite like the cast of Grass and unlike Producer Lo, I have much more faith in Producer Tsui and like most of his productions. I don't think Grass will be too bad, but it can't be too great either. I think it will be mediocre at best, unfortunately... I hope I'm wrong and Grass turns out to be an enjoyable series, but I am really skeptical about the quality of it.

series 411: "on the first beat"

Title: On The First Beat (Hok Ging Chut Gang)
Casts: Michael Tao, Sonija Kwok, Ron Ng, Sammul Chan, etc.
Length: 30 episodes (Cantonese) // 22 tapes (Vietnamese)
Release Date: June 2007 (Canto) // July 2007 (Viet)
Genre: Modern Drama/Police/Crime/Educational

Note: Please credit "MetalAZNWarrior" and/or this site if you should use my translation of the series' plot! I worked hard to translate it, so please don't just steal or use it for another site without my permission and/or credit. Thank you!

Synopsis:
The truth is a reality, true PTU
Leaving the academy, stepping in front of the firing line
The sequel to "The Academy,"
True feelings demonstrated teach the team through the process

After going through the excruciating training of the academy, Chung Lap Man (Ron Ng Cheuk Hei) and Li Pak Kiu (Sammul Chan Gin Fung) finally become official police officers and are assigned into the same branch. One operation causes Kiu's girlfriend to die a violent death. Furthermore, it causes Kiu and Man, this pair of good brothers, to separate from one another. Newly-appointed police chief Cheung Ging Fung (Michael Tao Dai Yue) turns out to be the crime leader of last time's operation. Kiu further discovers that there's an inside story to his girlfriend's death...

The feelings between Man and his colleague Cheung Nim Yan (Joey Yung Jo Yi) gradually develop. However, his cousin Man Jing (Kate Tsui Tsz San), like before, pursues him. On the other hand, Kiu loves Fung's ex-wife, Yuen Wai Nei (Sonija Kwok Sin Nei). However, the old feelings between Fung and Nei still haven't ended. Facing the impact of career, friendship, and love, how will the two new officers deal with it all?

My thoughts: I really liked The Academy. I'm iffy about this sequel because I don't like the cast changes. The storyline, however, seems promising. Besides, I mentioned previously that I like Academy's characters and want to see what the "future" has in store for them.

I'm so disappointed that Michelle Yim is not involved in the sequel. I loved her scenes in Academy (especially with Michael Miu - the highlight and star of Academy) - I wonder what happened to "Man"'s family in the sequel?!

Poor Ron... In Academy, Sammul's acting clearly outshone his and it looks like Sammul's acting and storyline will outshine him in Beat too. Honestly speaking, "Man" only has a seemingly typical and uninteresting love triangle whereas "Kiu" not only suffers the death of his beloved girlfriend, but has a brother/sister relationship and he's involved with a central mystery as well. How interesting do the scenes involving "Kiu" sound compared to "Man" already?

I'm going to hold out for reviews on Beat and then decide whether or not I want to watch it. I hope it's good and doesn't tarnish the good name Academy built.

series 411: "the family link"

Title: The Family Link (See Lai Bing Tuen)
Casts: Sheren Tang, Kiki Sheung, Cecilia Yip, Michael Tse, etc.
Length: 21 episodes (Cantonese) // 15 tapes (Vietnamese)
Release Date: May 2007 (Canto) // July 2007 (Viet)
Genre: Modern Drama/Family/Women/Comedy

Note: Please credit "MetalAZNWarrior" and/or this site if you should use my translation of the series' plot! I worked hard to translate it, so please don't just steal or use it for another site without my permission and/or credit. Thank you!

Synopsis:
Unafraid of the heavens,
Unafraid of the earth,
Supporting the entire family

Are housewives idle with restless lives? Mung Ga Ga (Sheren Tang Shui Man), Ding Mooi Heung (Cecilia Yip Tung), and Cho Mei Ngoh (Kiki Sheung Tin Ngoh) will tell you that the life of housewives is actually very much like a battle ground. Besides endless housework which they must do, they also have to attend to every minute happenings in the family. It requires them to be vigilant at all times.

For instance, because Ga suspected that her husband, Fong Yin Jo (Michael Tse Tin Wah), likes to dress up in drag, she suffers from chronic anxiety. Heung acquired a sexually transmitted disease from her husband. For the sake of her husband, Ngoh fakes a divorce, but who could have imagined that he actually has another woman outside? Being a widow isn't easy, just as being a widower isn't as well. Neighbor Ko Wing Kuen (John Chiang Dai Wai) became a widower after his wife died early, causing him to be unbearably distressed.

On the other hand, the wife of tea house owner Gam Sing Chun (Kenneth Ma Kwok Ming) commits suicide. Her good friend Su Siu Man (Leila Tong Ning) determines that several housewives all said hurtful things to her and so she decides to seek revenge...

My thoughts: The Family Link is being marketed as TVB's version of America's monster hit Desperate Housewives. With a strong central focus on the lives of a circle of housewife friends as well as a main suicide mystery, it seems that TVB has the recipe of Housewives down, but how will the final product turn out? I think Link will be more realistic and dramatic and not a mix of campy, hysterically outrageous comedy and poignant drama with an overtone of satire and over-the-top soap opera plots like the American version.

The poster is very creative and if it is well-received and produced, I think Link will do for Hong Kong wives what Housewives did for American wives - paint them as colorful people with feelings, desires, and passions... exposing the "secret" lives of housewives. Many people think that the lives of housewives are boring because all they do are housework and cater their families, so they don't really have "lives" of their own. On the contrary, this is but a faulty misconception. A housewife is as real of a person as anyone else.

I'm looking forward to watching this series because the plot seems different and creative and I'm a Housewives fan, so I want to see how this series fares. I just hope it will not be an embarrassment as TVB's proclaimed Sex and the City was. Sheren is extraordinary and Michael and Sheren make such a compatible pairing, so I'm sure it won't be too bad.

series 411: "a change of destiny"

English Title: A Change of Destiny
Cantonese Title: Tin Gei Suen
Vietnamese Title: Than Toan Thien Co
Casts: Benny Chan, Steven Ma, Shirley Yeung, Selena Li, etc.
Length: 20 episodes (Cantonese) // 16 tapes (Vietnamese)
Release Date: April 2007 (Canto) // June 2007 (Viet)
Genre: Costume Drama/Fantasy/Politics/Comedy

Synopsis:
Wind and Clouds Change
Mountains and Rivers are Chaotic
Secretly, the Heavens Control Destiny
After all Chance has been Calculated
Why not Return to the Way of the Righteous

Yip Yeung (Benny Chan Ho Man) is very interested in the "Back Pushing Diagrams", which according to folk legend can foretell the future and help people to find luck and avoid tragedy. Yuen Hei (Steven Ma Chun Wai) capitalizes on this opportunity and tries to make money from him with a fake set of diagrams, but he is discovered by Lee Sing Tin, who has changed his name to Wan Chung Hok (Yuen Wah).

It turns out that he once presented the diagrams to the Emperor Zhao Kuangyin (Kwok Fung), helping him gain his throne. With a deep understanding in foretelling destinies, he accepts Yeung and Hei as his students and hopes to pass on his lifelong knowledge. Yeung later also becomes the student of another master Nam Fong Man (Lau Kong). Man uses Yeung in hopes of seizing back the imperial throne.

Yeung finds out from Man that he is a descendant from the last dynasty's royal family. As a result, he uses his prediction skills in a pledge to turn back the Sung emperor and take back his own right to the throne; however, no matter how much he tries to calculate his destiny, he only meets with a tragic ending...

Credits: Em

series 411: "best selling secrets"

English Title: Best Selling Secrets
Cantonese Title: Tung See Sam Fan Chan
Vietnamese Title: Quan He Dong Nghiep
Casts: Esther Kwan, Kam Yin Ling, Vin Choi, Alvina Kong, etc.
Length: 120 episodes (Cantonese) // 40 tapes (Vietnamese)
Release Date: April 2007 (Canto) // June 2007 (Viet)
Genre: Modern Sitcom

Note: Please credit "MetalAZNWarrior" and/or this site if you should use my translation of the series' plot! I worked hard to translate it, so please don't just steal or use it for another site without my permission and/or credit. Thank you!

Synopsis:
Wong Ka Lam (Esther Kwan Wong Ho) just came back from overseas. She accidentally comes to know Tai Chi master Ng Hang (Kam Yin Ling) and her grandson Luk Jit (Vin Choi Kei Jun), who she has raised single-handedly. Although Lam doesn't get along well with Hang, she feels like she is old friends with Jit from their first meeting, despite their 18-years age difference. Later, she even joins the advertising company in which Jit works for.

Lam gets promoted at an exceptional rate by company's head, Yin Wai Shun (Wong Jee Hung). This catches the eye of a fellow colleague, who is dubbed "evil" - Dai On Na (Alvina Kong Yan Yin) and she develops animosity towards Lam. The company suddenly becomes a battleground for power for Lam and Na.

On the other hand, towards Jit and Lam becoming colleagues, Hang feels restless, as if she's harboring a secret that mustn't be told...

series 411: "heart of greed"

English Title: Heart of Greed
Cantonese Title: Tong Sum Fung Bo
Vietnamese Title: Tham Vong
Casts: Moses Chan, Bosco Wong, Raymond Lam, Linda Chung, Tavia Yeung, Yoyo Mung, Ha Yu, Lee See Kei, Susanna Kwan, etc.
Length: 40 episodes (Cantonese) // 30 tapes (Vietnamese)
Release Date: April 2007 (Canto) // May 2007 (Viet)
Genre: Modern Drama/Grand Production/Family

Note: Please credit "MetalAZNWarrior" and/or this site if you should use my translation of the series' plot! I worked hard to translate it, so please don't just steal or use it for another site without my permission and/or credit. Thank you!

Synopsis:
The "tong sum seung tau" abalone is a family heirloom
A family fortune worth six hundred million,
Everyone frantically wants a share of it

There's a big seafood store that enjoys a great reputation. A big family always preserves the idea that a business must be kept and passed down within the family. There are people who endure humiliation. There are others who are arrogant and conceited. Some feign brotherhood and friendship. Others are greedy and sneaky. There are some who use feelings to advance. There are those who wholly feel gratefulness...

When relatives encounter hatred amongst themselves...

The family changes...
Head of the family Tong Chi Gai (Ha Yu), his wife Ling Hau (Lee See Kei), and his adopted son Tong Chi On (Moses Chan Ho) try to keep their family warm. However, Gai's concubine, Wong Sau Kam (Susanna Kwan Guk Ying), secretly plots in order to gain a proper title within the family. Hau's little sister, Ling Lei (Michelle Yim Mai Suet), manages the Tong family's business rationally. Furthermore, for Gai's sole sake, Lei has protected an earth-shattering secret. Once the secret is out, the Tong family will immediately be broken beyond repair...

True feelings...
Gai's son, Chi Yat (Bosco Wong Chung Chak), wants to marry Cheuk Man Lai (Tavia Yeung Yi), who is already married. Lai repeatedly causes the brotherly relationship between On and Yat to become estranged. On becomes acquainted with the pair of sworn sisters Seung Joi Sum (Linda Chung Ka Yan) and Shui Ming Ha (Yoyo Mung Ka Wai). On has deep feelings for Sum. However, Sum only has lots of love for the lawyer Ching Leung (Raymond Lam Fung). "Born to be crazy in love" Ha suddenly flees from her marriage...

My thoughts: I liked the synopsis. It was to-the-point and intriguing without giving too much away. Heart is a soap opera - there's no doubt about that. We can expect lots of crazy moments, complicated relationships, heavy drama, back-stabbing, plotting, and all of that good stuff. TVB seems to be bringing the "soap opera" back onto the screen this year with productions like Heart, The Brink of Law, and upcoming epic blockbusters The Drive of Life and The Gem of Life. However, one has to wonder whether TVB is over-saturating the audience with this genre and whether or not this will play a dire effect on their soon-to-be-released blockbusters.

But anyways... getting back to Heart, I absolutely love everyone in this cast (as I've repeatedly mentioned). I was excited about this series since the very beginning. Heart truly exuberates a "grand" feeling that is lacking from most TVB productions these days. The storyline is nothing new, but I believe the cast will make Heart charming and memorable. Besides, I'm a sucker for family dramas, so I think Heart is right up my alley, especially since it's from Producer Lau, who produced one of my most favorite dramas of TVB's as of late - 2006's heartfelt When Rules Turn Loose.

Linda says that Heart is her favorite series out of all that she's done so far. She loves the script and says it's very touching, especially her relationships with Moses and Raymond. Linda has so much faith and love for Heart, so I don't think the series will be a let-down at all. I can't wait to watch it and see just how good Heart truly is.

series 411: "life art"

English Title: Life Art
Cantonese Title: Se Yi Yan Sang
Vietnamese Title: Cuoc Doi Tuoi Dep
Casts: Kevin Cheng, Gigi Lai, Paul Chun, Evergreen Mak, etc.
Length: 20 episodes (Cantonese) // 15 tapes (Vietnamese)
Release Date: March 2007 (Canto) // April 2007 (Viet)
Genre: Modern Drama/Enlightenment/Romance

Note: Please credit "MetalAZNWarrior" and/or this site if you should use my translation of the series' plot! I worked hard to translate it, so please don't just steal or use it for another site without my permission and/or credit. Thank you!

Synopsis:
Practice calligraphy, practice painting, practice character
Understand logic, understand principles, understand life

Youthful, talented, and handsome IT technician Fong Ji Chung (Kevin Cheng Ka Wing) by chance becomes acquainted with the talented, intelligent, and elegant writer and illustrator for children's books, Yam Chi Wah (Gigi Lai Chi). He later learns that Chi Wah is the beloved daughter of his own calligraphy and painting teacher, Yam Ching Chuen (Paul Chun Pui). Furthermore, Ji Chung discovers that this pair of father and daughter is very distant; it's as if they're restraining themselves, afraid of overstepping barriers.

Ji Chung continues to receive gains and losses in fame and fortune. With love as well, he encounters frustration and defeat. Something that's against anyone's wishes happens to Chuen, which causes the relationship among Ji Chung, Chi Wah, and Ching Chuen to make a new progression...

Will the ice-bound feelings between a father and daughter be able to make a breakthrough? Will Ji Chung's true feelings for Chi Wah be enough to move her? Obtaining enlightenment from the Chinese culture unites people, making it possible to experience a truly "artful" [enjoyable] life...

My thoughts: I know, I know, I previous wrote off Life Art as a series I would pass on. I said that although I liked the aesthetic feel and theme of the series, I still believed it was a "filler" series. However, I think I may have spoken too soon. After translating the synopsis and looking at photos from the series and being completely mesmerized by the gorgeous poster, I think I may give Art a chance. I don't know who TVB hired to make their posters lately, but I applaud them! TVB posters are looking better and better. I'm intrigued by Chinese calligraphy (it's truly an artwork) and painting/art seems like a refreshing theme. Besides, the series just looks so darn attractive and appealing to pass on! Gigi looks amazing - very angelic. I think this may be 2007's Under The Canopy of Love for me... or at least I hope it is. If the reviews are positive and the series is indeed "enlightening," cute, and touching [I'm all for series like those!], I will definitely give Art a spin.

series 411: "the slicing of the demon"

English Title: The Slicing of the Demon
Cantonese Title: Hung Sing Gai Chung Gai
Vietnamese Title: Hung Thanh An
Casts: Sunny Chan, Michael Tse, Bernice Liu, Ngok Wah, etc.
Length: 20 episodes (Cantonese) // 16 tapes (Vietnamese)
Release Date: March 2007 (Canto) // April 2007 (Viet)
Genre: Costume Drama/Mystery/Thriller/Supernatural

Note: Please credit "MetalAZNWarrior" and/or this site if you should use my translation of the series' plot! I worked hard to translate it, so please don't just steal or use it for another site without my permission and/or credit. Thank you!

Synopsis:
The heart of men is hard to figure out
Saviors and foes, who is the enemy?

During the Ming dynasty, executioner Sei Hoi (Sunny Chan Gam Hung) and his god-brother, Shui Yu Chan (Michael Tse Tin Wah), a doctor, accidentally enter the town of Cheung Lung. Cheung Lung appears to be a happy and peaceful place. However, underneath the facade, it's hiding a very big secret.

The brothers meet the town's wealthiest man, Fok Tin Ming (Ngok Wah), as well as his stubborn and unreasonable daughter, Fok Sin Yiu (Bernice Liu Bik Yi). By mistake, Hoi and Yiu get married and become husband and wife. Suddenly, a number of murders happen in the town. While investigating, Hoi discovers that he and Chan are being caught in a trap. It turns out that there's someone behind the scenes pulling the strings. But, who is it? Is it a god? A person? The unknown causes immense fear in people...

My thoughts: I think the Chinese title of Demon is interesting. It suggests a "plot" within a "plot." Could it be that all of the murders occurring in the town is intended to serve towards an even bigger scheme? Either way, I think it's a given that Ngok Wah's character has something to do with it - which is disappointing seeing how Demon is marketing itself as a thrilling mystery. Honestly, the synopsis is disappointing. Unless Demon can prove to be more surprising, intriguing, and complex than the synopsis is stating, I think I will pass on it.

series 411: "devil's disciples"

English Title: Devil's Disciples
Cantonese Title: Keung Gim
Vietnamese Title: Thanh Kiem
Casts: Bosco Wong, Kevin Cheng, Bernice Liu, Sharon Chan, etc.
Length: 20 episodes (Cantonese) // 16 tapes (Vietnamese)
Release Date: February 2007 (Canto) // March 2007 (Viet)
Genre: Costume Drama/Martial Arts/Fantasy

Synopsis:
Good and evil, who can determine;
Love and hate, who can distinguish

Wulin's [ancient world of martial arts] top righteous swordsmen clan, the School of the Sacred Swords, was recruiting students to learn, practice and train in a specific formation that had been lost years ago. An easygoing fellow, Sing Fung (Bosco Wong Chung Chak), and the cool and solitary Ging Nui (Kevin Cheng Ka Wing) were both successfully admitted into the school.

At the same time, the evil Bloody Shadow Clan was rising up. The new leader of the clan, Mok Man (Sharon Chan Man Chi) led its members on an attack to Sacred Swords. Fung suffered severe injures, but was fortunately rescued from the doors of death with the help of a good friend and a member of the Sky One Tribe, Sui Ling (Shirley Yeung Sze Kei).

After Fung recovered from his injuries, his martial arts powers grew immensely, and was appointed the master of the school. Bak Tong Oh (Eddy Ko Hung), whom people call the "master of swords," married his daughter Bak Tong Chi Lung (Bernice Liu Bik Yi) to him. However, on the day of the big wedding, someone revealed that Fung and Man were siblings, and he was actually the offspring of the evil clan! Fung, who had always been raised admiring Sacred Swords painfully struggled between the idea of good and evil. Nui, who both loved and hated Man, was also trapped in a big dilemma...

Credits: B O S C O - W O N G . C O M

series 411: "best bet"

English Title: Best Bet
Cantonese Title: Ying Chai Jip Fook
Vietnamese Title: Nghia Vo Tinh Chong
Casts: Michael Tse, Linda Chung, Wayne Lai, Anne Heung, etc.
Length: 20 episodes (Cantonese) // 15 tapes (Vietnamese)
Release Date: February 2007 (Canto) // April 2007 (Viet)
Genre: Period Comedy/Drama/Gambling

Note: Please credit "MetalAZNWarrior" and/or this site if you should use my translation of the series' plot! I worked hard to translate it, so please don't just steal or use it for another site without my permission and/or credit. Thank you!

Synopsis:
Love the wife enough,
Wealth and fortune naturally comes!

Young master Hor Yi (Michael Tse Tin Wah) is the son of a prosperous Foshan pawn shop owner. Since childhood, if he doesn't gamble, he won't be happy. Furthermore, if he gambles, he must win. One time, he gambled for three days and three nights. As a result, he collapses due to exhaustion. Luckily, Do Lai Ying (Linda Chung Ka Yan) passes by and saves him.

Yi searches for Ying because he fell in love with her at first sight. She deeply detests gambling. However, things are unpredictable and by mistake, Ying later on becomes Yi's wife! After marriage, Yi is determined to give up gambling. Unfortunately, Yi can't let go of his addiction. Ying is very disappointed at Yi. Who could imagine that he still doesn't repent and even blames her for his losses!

Ying decides to leave Foshan for Hong Kong to study medicine. After repenting his past mistakes, will Yi be able to win back his wife's heart and receive her blessings?

My thoughts: The synopsis doesn't sound too good... I don't like how it was so simplistic and just focused on Michael and Linda's characters. I don't think a "full" picture of the series was really painted. Therefore, I still have my faith in Best Bet and think it won't just be about the marriage between "Yi" and "Ying" and the problems that result from his gambling addiction and end with him fighting to win her back. I'm curious to see how and why "Ying" will marry "Yi" since she hates gambling so much and of course to see how their relationship develops and how he will win her back. TVB is really pushing the "wife" theme for the New Year in this series. I'm also interested in the other characters - it should be a very entertaining and hopefully hilarious and touching series, seeing how it comes from the producer of one of 2006's best series and unexpected gem, Safe Guards.

series 411: "heavenly in-laws"

English Title: Heavenly In-Laws
Cantonese Title: Ngoh Ngoi Mo Mm Hai Yan
Vietnamese Title: Duyen Tinh Tien Pham
Casts: Nancy Sit, Joey Leung, Linda Chung, Yuen Wah, etc.
Length: 20 episodes (Cantonese) // 15 tapes (Vietnamese)
Release Date: January 2007 (Canto) // March 2007 (Viet)
Genre: Period Comedy/Fantasy

Note: Please credit "MetalAZNWarrior" and/or this site if you should use my translation of the series' plot! I worked hard to translate it, so please don't just steal or use it for another site without my permission and/or credit. Thank you!

Synopsis:
The heavenly mother-in-law destroys the couple
The mortal son-in-law's spirit and soul are dispersed into nothing!

"Hundred Flower Goddess" Chi Mei (Linda Chung Ka Yan) secretly descends into the mortal world in order to experience love. Her innocent and kind self meets Ding San (Joey Leung Wing Chung), who makes his living as a swindler. This leads Lo Fa (Nancy Sit Ka Yin), who is head of the Hundred Flower Palace, to rush down. She swears to prevent her daughter from falling into the mortal world's love trap.

Fa strongly believes that love between a mortal and an immortal will not have a good ending. Therefore, she uses magic to break up the lovers. Who could have imagined that she was so silly and created the opposite spell instead? She causes San to marry Mei as his wife! On the other hand, in order to win Mei, rich heirloom Cheng Sau Yip (Joel Chan San Chung) unexpectedly steals Fa's magic weapon. Things become worse when he accidentally causes himself and San to exchange souls!

The soul switching reaches its time limit, but San still cannot return to his true body. From then on, his soul and spirit disperses. At the same time, Fa, Mei, "Tok Shui" God (Yuen Wah), and Yee Long Sun (Lee Kwok Lun) don't know the real story. They wrongly believe the words of "Fake Ding San," pursue "Sau Yip" to kill him, and at any time, the soul and spirit of the "Real Ding San" could disperse into nothing...

My thoughts: Wow! The synopsis actually sounds pretty funny and interesting. I guess I underestimated this series. Nancy's character sounds exactly like "Yau Nim Chi" from Virtues of Harmony - loving and 'capable,' but silly and makes a lot of mistakes. Linda's character sounds very cute and sweet and it is funny that she falls for a swindler. I have a feeling that Producer Wong made this series to ride on the fame of 2005's War of In-Laws. War was about the conflicts between a mother-in-law and her daughter-in-law whereas Heavenly deals with a heavenly mother-in-law and her mortal son-in-law. War had a good premise and a hilarious start, but was executed poorly and became ridiculous. I really hope Producer Wong's Heavenly will fare much better and be as hilarious and entertaining as the premise and synopsis make it out to be. In any case, I do like Heavenly's cast much better, so I should enjoy it better regardless.

series 411: "the brink of law"

English Title: The Brink of Law
Cantonese Title: Dat Wai Hang Dung
Vietnamese Title: Hanh Dong Dac Vu
Casts: Steven Ma, Ron Ng, Bernice Liu, Kate Tsui, etc.
Length: 25 episodes (Cantonese) // 19 tapes (Vietnamese)
Release Date: January 2007 (Canto) // March 2007 (Viet)
Genre: Modern Drama/Suspense/Investigation/Action

Note: Please credit "MetalAZNWarrior" and/or this site if you should use my translation of the series' plot! I worked hard to translate it, so please don't just steal or use it for another site without my permission and/or credit. Thank you!

Synopsis:
Breaking through layers upon layers
Unearthing a corporation's many layers of dark secrets!

The court prosecutes Tong Chi Ko (Steven Ma Chun Wai) for slander. After reforming his life, he joins a fashion corporation as a legal advisor. He becomes good friends with Tung Yat Jun (Ron Ng Cheuk Hei), the nephew of corporation head Tung Jin Lung (Ngok Wah). Ko encounters his first love, Tsui Wing (Bernice Liu Bik Yi), but discovers that her relationship with Lung is atypical. Lung's wife, Kam Chi (Michelle Mai Suet), accidentally learns Jun's life-changing secret and swears to set him into a deathtrap!

This time, Ko suspects that the fashion company isn't simply engaged within the bounds of its business, but is furthermore involved with an international off-track betting activity. However, the truth of the matter causes people to be confused. Actually, who is the real person behind the scenes pulling strings?

My thoughts: At this point, seriously, I don't need to say how highly I regard this series nor how long I've anticipated and waited to watch this... you guys already know. However, I will say it again. The cast is the best I've seen in a while [Producer Mui always picks the very best and makes the most attractive and vibrant cast], it has a top-notch producer, and the series looks and feels like a "hit." The plot sounds so fascinating - surely a lot of twists and turns as promised! I think it will be very exciting, interesting, and engaging to watch Brink. It has so much potential and promise. Hopefully the actual script is as riveting and unpredictable as the synopsis claims it will be. I am very confident that this series will be awesome. I am so happy that TVB is opening 2007 with this series. I think it is just what TVB needs to get moving and end their current anticlimactic season.

series 411: "the price of greed"

English Title: The Price of Greed
Cantonese Title: Cheen Fong Bak Gai
Vietnamese Title: Cam Bay
Casts: Bosco Wong, Sammul Chan, Shirley Yeung, Kate Tsui, etc.
Length: 20 episodes (Cantonese) // 15 tapes (Vietnamese)
Release Date: December 2006 (Canto) // February 2007 (Viet)
Genre: Period Drama/Mystery/Suspense/Pyschology

Note: Please credit this site if you should use my translation of the series' plot! Don't just steal or use it for another site without my permission and/or credit. Thank you! Special thanks to Em for helping me with the translation of the synopsis.

Synopsis:
A million people have a million greedy aspirations, a million lies!

Lam Ping's (Kate Tsui Tsz San) boyfriend, Tsui Fung (Sammul Chan Kin Fung), goes missing for a year. Policeman Lui To (Bosco Wong Chung Chak) discovers that Fung actually has died already and it was Ping herself who collected his remains. Not long afterwards, Fung suddenly appears, making the matter even more mysterious! Furthermore, the feelings between Ping and Fung are sealed.

Everything originates from a plot to gain the inheritance by Ping's stepmother and a conman. To begins a series of investigations and survives through many dangers and is even discharged from duty. Fortunately, he has a good friend whom he has grown up with, Yan Yuet Mui (Shirley Yeung Sze Ki), beside him to encourage him. On the other hand, after Ping and Fung are married, something happens to each of their family members. It turns out that the Top Eight Conmen led by Mau Thai (Chan Hung Lit) have taken on different identities within the Lam family...

My thoughts: Finally, a series that I've been anticipating releases. I'm disappointed that TVB is not airing it at the same time, but I hope that they will air it eventually. I believe this is Producer Tsui's second Return of the Cuckoo because several things seem similar. The plot sounds quite intriguing and I hope it is as psychologically satisfying as the premises make it out to be; it seems so fresh and exciting. Sammul is a super villain, Shirley is a mute musical prodigy, and Kate has a split personality. The series looks visually appealing. Although I don't have much hope on the acting (from the female side), I think it should still be a good series. I can't wait to watch this. I really hope it won't disappoint me like The Biter Bitten did (especially since there's no Linda Chung this time to make things bearable).

series 411: "the conquest"

English Title: The Conquest
Cantonese Title: Jang Ba
Vietnamese Title: Song Hung Tranh Ba
Casts: Joe Ma, Damien Lau, Sonija Kwok, Chen Kun, etc.
Length: 42 episodes (Cantonese) // 34 tapes (Vietnamese)
Release Date: June 2006 (Canto) // December 2006 (Viet)
Genre: Historical Costume Drama/War

Note: Please credit "MetalAZNWarrior" and/or this site if you should use my translation of the series' plot! I worked hard to translate it, so please don't just steal or use it for another site without my permission and/or credit. Thank you!

Synopsis:
A grand production that moves the soul
History from 2000 years ago reappears vividly

During the warring period between the spring and autumn states, every province has its own lord occupying his own region. How many strange situations have happened as they all try to seize other lands. Fan Lai / Fan Li (Chen Kun), Ngau Jin / Gou Jian (Damien Lau Ching Yan), and Fu Cha / Fu Chai (Joe Ma Dak Chung), among these three, they have fought for over twenty years, battling wisdom and strength. Fan Lai / Fan Li is chivalrous and loyal, Ngau Jin / Gou Jian is ruthless, Fu Cha / Fu Chai has a brave and ambitious history, and what causes the downfall of a nation is the great beauty, Sei Sze / Xi Shi (Sonija Kwok Sin Nei)...

The story happens some two thousand five hundred years ago and seems remote, but the core ideal at heart still persists. The unyielding and righteous spirit, its inspiring and moving story - people are still talking about it until now for it is still amusing.

My thoughts: So many people have raved about this series and it was a huge hit in mainland China when it was aired. They said that the cinematography is amazing and it is a well-scripted drama and that the cast did a great job. I like Sonija, so I really want to see if she was able to improve that much to garner some praises for her performance. I heard that even Joe is good in this series. I actually don't have anything against him, so I look forward to his performance as well. I think he's decent, but just not "leading man" material. I'm fine with him as a supporting actor. Damien is an amazing actor - love him - he's just always awesome to watch so I know he'll be captivating in Conquest as well. I don't have much to say about the mainland actors because I don't know them and haven't seen them on-screen yet. The costumes and scenery look pretty nice. It's a primitive time in China's history, so I'm not expecting anything too lavish. All in all, I hope this series does well in Hong Kong. Maybe this will give Sonija the push that she needs to become a true "leading lady." I can't wait to watch it. I love historical dramas and I'm also very interested and curious about the storyline since I've always heard the name "Xi Shi" but never knew the story behind it.

series 411: "dicey business"

English Title: Dicey Business
Cantonese Title: Doh Cheung Fung Wan
Vietnamese Title: Song Bac Phong Van
Casts: Bobby Au-Yeung, Jessica Hsuan, Michael Miu, Bosco Wong, etc.
Length: 35 episodes (Cantonese) // 26 tapes (Vietnamese)
Release Date: November 2006 (Canto) // January 2007 (Viet)
Genre: Modern Drama/Gambling

Note: Please credit "MetalAZNWarrior" and/or this site if you should use my translation of the series' plot! I worked hard to translate it, so please don't just steal or use it for another site without my permission and/or credit. Thank you!

Synopsis:
Within the casino, only wins and losses are counted
On the gambling table, brothers are hard to distinguish and separate

Twenty years ago, Chai Foon Cheung (Bobby Au-Yeung Jan Wah) was defeated in a worldwide playing card match. Since then, he loses ever bet he makes. Because of his curse, a casino hires him for work, but the person who hired him was his opponent from his match - Kiu Jing Choh (Michael Miu Kiu Wai).

Through gambling addict Li Ching Wan (Jessica Hsuan Suen Huen), Cheung reunites with his long-lost brother, Chai Foon Lok [also known as Cheung Loi Fu] (Bosco Wong Jung Chak). Lok is a mysterious youth. Choh appreciates Lok's natural gambling talents. He teaches him gambling techniques. On the surface, Choh faces Cheung, allowing Lok to shine with his talents. In fact, the person who caused Cheung to be defeated so badly that year was Choh. Today, the person who causes Lok to regard Cheung with hatred is also Choh! Choh provokes dissension, causing the two brothers to break ties on the gambling table...

My thoughts: I have to say that the synopsis sounds interesting, especially with the on-going battle between Cheung and Choh and the brotherly relationship of Cheung and Lok. Choh seems like a super villain... I wonder why he hates Cheung so much to want to destroy him so badly? However, I'm not a big fan of gambling series - I just don't like the atmosphere of them, which is ironic as I'm living in a city whose economy relies on casinos. The cast is good and this is a grand production, so I think it shouldn't be horrible. However, the producer has a record of bad series (ala Au Revior Shanghai) so I'm skeptical about it. The thing that attracts me most about this series is Tavia Yeung's sexy character, Tam Jue Mei. Her image in Dicey Business is very attractive and got me to notice Tavia. I'm leaving the doors open for this series, but whether I'll eventually close or let myself through it is up in the air depending on the quality of the series and reviews.

Visit Jayne's site for more information and goods on Dicey.

series 411: "glittering days"

One of TVB's 2006 Anniversary Series...



English Title: Glittering Days
Cantonese Title: Dung Fong Ji Jue
Vietnamese Title: Chuoi Ngay Huy Hoang
Casts: Liza Wang, Roger Kwok, Charmaine Sheh, Paul Chun, etc.
Length: 30 episodes (Cantonese) // 23 tapes (Vietnamese)
Release Date: November 2006 (Canto) // January 2007 (Viet)
Genre: Period Comedy/Musical/Drama

Note: Please credit "MetalAZNWarrior" and/or this site if you should use my translation of the series' plot! I worked hard to translate it, so please don't just steal or use it for another site without my permission and/or credit. Thank you!

Synopsis:
The lively song king, the former song queen
Singing a grand tune, listen to life's sweetness, sorrows, and pain

The prominent singer of the time, Sau Ling Fung (Roger Kwok Jun On), is exposed by a reporter for lying about being the leader of a singing troupe and the student of former renowned Shanghai singing starlet, Kam Yin (Liza Wang Ming Chuen). Yin is just about to bring her long lost son from the village to Hong Kong. Thereupon, she uses this chance to blackmail Fung.

Fung uses a harmful plot to lead Yin to take the speech impediment Jue Yuk Laan (Charmaine Sheh Si Man) as a student. On one hand, he hopes to cause Yin to make a fool of herself. On the other hand, he also plans to use this chance to do away with Laan. Who could imagine that Laan becomes popular!

Laan's path to stardom is glorious. Someone informs the police with indications that Fung is a swindler of love and money. The chief investigator chases this case until the death and because of this, Fung can no longer continue working in the musical world. At this time, Fung accidentally finds out that the person who informed the reporter was Yin!

My thoughts: To be frank, I am not looking forward to Glittering Days and I'm leaning towards skipping it. I'm not big on series with a heavy musical base and Glittering's time period is a big turn off. Series set in this particular era tend to be a bit daft and idiotically exaggerated for my taste. However, if reviews are good, I might give this series a chance. TVB seems to have put a lot of money into its production so the musical numbers shouldn't disappoint and Glittering does indeed look very flashy as the title suggests. Still, I'm not yet "sold" on this and will just have to wait and see whether or not I'll watch it.

series 411: "to grow with love"

One of TVB's 2006 Anniversary Series...



English Title: To Grow With Love
Cantonese Title: Fei Tin Hei See
Vietnamese Title: Tinh Yeu Chan That
Casts: Myolie Wu, Andy Hui, Jack Wu, Selena Li, etc.
Length: 21 episodes (Cantonese) // 16 tapes (Vietnamese)
Release Date: October 2006 (Canto) // January 2006 (Viet)
Genre: Modern Comedy/Romance/Drama

Note: Please credit "MetalAZNWarrior" and/or this site if you should use my translation of the series' plot! I worked hard to translate it, so please don't just steal or use it for another site without my permission and/or credit. Thank you!

Synopsis:
Does the number of candidates at your feet really have an inversely proportional relationship to your body weight?

Since childhood, Filipino-born Chinese Ho Mei Tin (Myolie Wu Hang Yi) has been chubby. She receives much ridicule in the slimming obsessed Hong Kong. Disheartened, she decides to return to the Philippines. However, she discovers that someone has been replying to her perspectives on love. She decides to stay to find this person.

Tin's boss, Daai Hei (Andy Hui Chi On) is displeased with her chubby figure, so he always picks on her. He could never have imagined that one day he would fall in love with her. To forget Tin, he quickly marries his girlfriend, Sung Man Yi (Claire Yiu Ka Nei). Meanwhile, the hopeful romantic Tin puts her efforts to running a wedding planning shop. Unexpectedly though, her first customer is Hei!

My thoughts: To Grow With Love is said to be the HK version of Bridget Jones's Diary. I find it really commendable that Myolie Wu was able to gain and lose so much weight in such a short amount of time. She looks so adorable as "Fat Tin" - just really cute! Selena Li looks quite pretty from pictures as well. I haven't seen Andy Hui act, so I don't know what to expect from him and honestly, from clips, I don't think he's going to be that good.

I didn't look forward to this series because I really don't like over-hyped productions and I'm not into the whole slapstick/physical comedy thing. However, after watching TVB's three-part advertisement for it, I found it quite charming and funny. The thing with "these" type of series (about "ugly" people for lack of a better term) is that in order to be entertaining, it must be charming and witty. It's very easy for these series to fall into the trap of being corny, ridiculous, and predictable, especially if they are plot-driven. The characters and acting are what drive these series. If Grow has heart, then this series should do well and be enjoyable.

series 411: "at home with love"

Title: At Home With Love
Cantonese Title: Lau Ju Yau Ching Yan
Vietnamese Title: To Am Tinh Nhan
Casts: Lawrence Ng, Yoyo Mung, Chung King Fai, Raymond Cho, etc.
Length: 20 episodes (Cantonese) // 15 tapes (Vietnamese)
Release Date: October 2006 (Canto) // December 2006 (Viet)
Genre: Modern Drama/Romance

Note: Please credit "MetalAZNWarrior" and/or this site if you should use my translation of the series' plot! I worked hard to translate it, so please don't just steal or use it for another site without my permission and/or credit. Thank you!

Synopsis:
A mansion is easily acquired
A lover is difficult to pursue

Chung Chi Leung (Lawrence Ng Kai Wah) and Tsui Ji Ling (Yoyo Mung Ka Wai) become lovers because of Leung's father, Chung Bong (Chung King Fai). After Bong retires, he hands his real estate company to Leung. Originally, Ling is Bong's good friend and he introduces her to be Leung's broker. After awhile, she becomes Leung's girlfriend.

The relationship between Bong and Leung has never been good. In the mainland, Bong has a girlfriend. This causes the two to enter a "cold war." Luckily, Ling is there to mediate between them. Just that later, Ling changes and values money above all else. She even leaves the real estate company for money, leaving Leung to face the work alone...

My thoughts: I am not looking forward to this series and I am definitely not going to be watching it. Call me prejudice, but I can tell this series is going to be a major flop based on the synopsis as well as the fact that it's from the notorious Producer Lo Wing Yin (who isn't exactly a favored or liked producer by the general audience - Always Ready, Life Begins at Forty, Welcome To The House, Angels of Missions, Split Seconds, etc. are all his works). At Home With Love looks and feels like a "warehouse" series. It is so low-budget, the storyline is really mundane and typical, and the cast... (I'll let you guys fill that in.)

Yoyo Mung looks pretty in Home... and that's about the only compliment I can give. She has really made her way into my "like" list after The Charm Beneath (I used to find her really boring, unnatural, and uneasy on the eyes) and Yoyo is probably the only reason why TVB is airing this sub-par series. It's disappointing because I feel there are plenty of other stronger series that TVB can air in this crucial pre-anniversary time.

At this point, you guys are wondering why I even did a Series 411 for Home and wasted my time translating the plot. Frankly, I did it as a "favor" for someone (besides the synopsis was really easy to translate, so I figured "Why not?"). If this series does get good ratings and positive reviews, I will be really shocked. Can Producer Lo finally break his "low ratings, poor reviews" curse? But that won't change my mind - I am skipping this series. I don't have time or money to waste.

series 411: "forensic heroes"

English Title: Forensic Heroes
Cantonese Title: Faat Jing Sin Fung
Vietnamese Title: Doi Phap Ly Tien Phong
Casts: Bobby Au-Yeung, Frankie Lam, Yoyo Mung, Linda Chung, etc.
Length: 25 episodes (Cantonese) // 19 tapes (Vietnamese)
Release Date: June 2006 (Canto) // September 2006 (Viet)
Producer: Mui Siu Ching (Love Bond, The Charm Beneath, etc.)
Genre: Modern Drama/Detective/Forensics/Mystery/Suspense

Note: Please credit "MetalAZNWarrior" and/or this site if you should use my translation of the series' plot! I worked hard to translate it, so please don't just steal or use it for another site without my permission and/or credit. Thank you!

Synopsis:
The Forensic Science Department's senior chemist, Ko Yin Bok (Bobby Au-Yeung Chan Wah) is a calm and reasonable person with great observational skills. Through just a single strand of hair or a fiber from a piece of clothing, he can help the police solve cases. People place Bok as their idol. Surprisingly though, Bok's brother-in-law, forensic pathologist Koo Chak Sam (Frankie Lam Man Lung), and senior inspector Leung Siu Yau (Yoyo Mung Ga Wai) suspect that he killed his wife!

In the end, Bok is able to prove his innocence through his vast forensic knowledge. Bok, Sam, and Yau form a triangle consisting of the Forensic Science Department, the Forensic Pathology Department, and the Hong Kong Police Force, continuing to work hand-in-hand like before. With each case that they solve, the more mysterious things appear to be. Furthermore, it appears that someone is arranging everything, trying to go against Bok and setting a deathtrap for him!

Media/Downloads: Themevideo // Screenshots // First Look

series 411: "war and destiny"

English Title: War and Destiny
Cantonese Title: Luen Sai Gai Yan
Vietnamese Title: Tinh Yeu Thoi Loan
Casts: Myolie Wu, Ron Ng, Sunny Chan, Leila Tong, etc.
Length: 30 episodes (Cantonese) // 23 tapes (Vietnamese)
Release Date: July 2006 (Canto) // September 2006 (Viet)
Genre: Period Drama/War/Romance

Synopsis:
Patriots or traitors?
Friends or foes?
How can you tell the truth from the lies in a time of war?

The story begins in 1937 when northeastern China is seized by the Japanese army. Ku Ping On (Myolie Wu Hang Yee), along with her seriously-ill mother and Tin Hau Yi (Ron Ng Cheuk Hei), a friend whom she trusts as a brother, comes to Nanjing (formerly known as Nanking) to seek refuge with her biological father Ku Man Chai (Lau Dan), who is the wealthiest rice merchant in the city. Sadly, the three of them are not welcomed by the Ku's and are treated like dirt in the big mansion.

Following the Marco Polo Bridge Incident (also known as the Lugouqiao Incident of July 7th in China), Nanjing falls to the Japanese troops. Not until this point does On realize that her closest childhood buddy Yi is actually the son of the Japanese General Tsuyoshi Matsuda (Shek Sau). What shocks her even more is that this man whom she sees as her future husband has been having an affair with her father's mistress Cheng Yuet Fung (Leila Tong Ning).

Seeing that a Japanese colonel has a crush on On, Poon Sai Cheung (Sunny Chan Kam Hung), a traitor, buys off her freedom before the colonel, to which she is reluctant. On hates Cheung more than anything, but as time goes by, she begins to fall in love with him...

Credits: TVFE Drama Warehouse

series 411: "face to fate"

English Title: Face To Fate
Cantonese Title: Bo Yee Sun Seung
Vietnamese Title: Than Tuong Dieu Huyen
Casts: Frankie Lam, Raymond Lam, Tavia Yeung, Selena Li, etc.
Length: 30 episodes (Cantonese) // 24 tapes (Vietnamese)
Release Date: August 2006 (Canto) // October 2006 (Viet)
Genre: Costume Drama/Martial Arts/Fantasy

Synopsis:
According to the practice in the martial world, a duel between the virtuous sects and the evil cults is to be arranged every five years, in which five representatives from each side are involved and the winning party will be appointed the leader of the martial world for the coming five years. A number of kung-fu masters from the virtuous sects have been mysteriously assassinated before the upcoming duel. Li Bo Yee (Frankie Lam Man Lung), who is an expert in martial arts and physiognomy reading, is to look for some other potential representatives.

Lai Yeuk Yee (Raymond Lam Fung), a gifted physician hired by the evil cults, has been trying to put a spoke in Bo Yee's wheel. As instructed by his master, Ko Shu Tin (Felix Lok Ying Kwan), he attempts to kill Bo Yee. Tin is actually Bo Yee's long-lost apprentice brother. When he was younger, Tin believed that the evil side would prevail as prophesied and therefore went over to the Heavenly Desired Palace. For the sake of Peace and the virtuous sects, Bo Yee is already gearing up for a fight with Yeuk Yee!

Credits: TVFE Drama Warehouse

series 411: "love guaranteed"

English Title: Love Guaranteed
Cantonese Title: Ngoi Ching Chuen Bo
Vietnamese Title: Ai Tinh Toan Bao
Casts: Sunny Chan, Melissa Ng, Paul Chun, Kenneth Ma, etc.
Length: 20 episodes (Cantonese) // 15 tapes (Vietnamese)
Release Date: July 2006 (Canto) // September 2006 (Viet)
Genre: Modern Comedy/Drama/Romance

Synopsis:
All she wants is a sense of security
What he strives for is his own dignity
The Love Insurance provides any assurance to lovers!

Bitter rivals Kwok Fu Keung (Sunny Chan Kam Hung) and Kuk Yeuk Hei (Melissa Ng Mei Heng) have proposed a brand new Love Insurance Plan almost simultaneously. To test the feasibility of the proposal, their supervisor makes them take out an insurance policy, under which they will be eligible for the insurance proceeds on the condition that the two of them end up marrying each other. Unfortunately, their plan does not go far enough and turns out to be a total failure eventually.

They come to know and appreciate each other better now that they no longer have to go out for money. Gradually, they fall in love and decide to get married, but out of the blue, Keung does not turn up on the wedding day.

The pair is deeply hurt by love and has since become each other's closet competitors. They are so desperate to win that they have both breached the code of conduct of the industry, which at worst may bring them to the end of their career. In the meantime, Hei discovers that Keung has never stopped paying the premiums for their Love Insurance Policy...

Credits: TVFE Drama Warehouse

series 411: "c.i.b. files"

English Title: C.I.B. Files
Cantonese Title: Ying See Ching Bo Foh
Vietnamese Title: Hinh Su Tinh Bao
Casts: Bowie Lam, Wong He, Maggie Siu, Christine Ng, etc.
Length: 20 episodes (Cantonese) // 15 tapes (Vietnamese)
Release Date: August 2006 (Canto) // October 2006 (Viet)
Genre: Modern Drama/Investigation

Synopsis:
Brothers Chung Shun (Bowie Lam Bo Yee) and Chung Ching (Wong He) are both serving members of the Criminal Intelligence Bureau (C.I.B.) of the Hong Kong Police Force. Shun is responsible for technical espionage like phone-tapping and eavesdropping and the recruitment of informants while Ching is to conduct intelligence analysis and assessment. C.I.B. works closely with various units in tackling organized crime syndicates and has made a quiet yet significant contribution to the Force. Serving as Intelligence Officers is absolutely challenging and has put Shun and Ching under great stress. Their love and family lives have also been affected in some way.

Shun and Ching Mei Lai (Christine Ng Wing Mei) have been married for over ten years, but their relationship is no longer progressing as it should. Ching has rekindled his romance with Hui Sum Yin (Maggie Siu Mei Kei) after a string of break-ups and reconciliations. Yin is employed with the magazine for which Lai works. She puts her heart and soul into her job and never misses a chance to get the facts. Lai sees Yin, who is her subordinate, as a real threat to her own position.

The two of them, though not openly, are in stiff competition with each other...

Credits: TVFE Drama Warehouse

series 411: "land of wealth"

English Title: Land of Wealth
Cantonese Title: Wooi Tung Tin Ha
Vietnamese Title: Hoi Thong Thien Ha
Casts: Moses Chan, Steven Ma, Sonija Kwok, Tavia Yeung, etc.
Length: 32 episodes (Cantonese) // 25 tapes (Vietnamese)
Release Date: September 2006 (Canto) // December 2006 (Viet)
Genre: Qing Dynasty Costume Drama

Note: Please credit "MetalAZNWarrior" and/or this site if you should use my translation of the series' plot! I worked hard to translate it, so please don't just steal or use it for another site without my permission and/or credit. Thank you!

Synopsis:
Silver, bank notes - the space between power, vanishing the old
The commercial war joins the stage. Exciting the soul, frightening the heart!

Chai Bak Chuen (Moses Chan Ho) is a descendent of a government official. His family was framed and sentenced to beheading, but luckily, he managed to survive and escape. He becomes the disciple of Kiu Boon Yip (John Chiang Dai Wai), the boss of Shanxi's first bank, Ding Fung Sing.

Chuen realizes that Ba Ba Ha Yi Ko Wai (Sonija Kwok Sin Nei) is a foreigner because she feels inferior, so doesn't dare to show her love. Meanwhile, the Kiu's second young mistress, Kiu Jun (Tavia Yeung Yi) and the military aircraft official, Cheung Sung Man (Steven Ma Chun Wai) love each other. However, the couple's relationship, because Man has to impartially investigate Ding Fung Sing, meets conflicts.

On one occasion, Ding Fung Sing suffers from big storekeeper Cho Yu Tai's (Lau Dan) frame, almost causing them to go out of business. The imperial court doesn't end harsh laws and furthermore, it asks Ding Fung Sing to keep inflating money. Before Yip's death, he hands Ding Fung Sing to Chuen, who time and time again helped him to overcome difficulties. The merchant fights with wealth, government officials fight still with power. How can Chuen lead Ding Fung Sing in facing the corrupt late Qing government?

My thoughts: I was stoked about Land of Wealth since its costume fitting ceremony. The leads are all my favorites and the production just seems very, very attractive. I've always had a "thing" for costume series, especially those that are tragic. Wealth seems like a great tragedy and it looks like a memorable and high-quality series too. Dance of Passion had the "looks" of a great series, but not the substance of one - so I'm really hoping that Wealth isn't just for looks either. In any case, it is by far more visually appealing than Dance, from costumes to settings.

I haven't seen Sonija Kwok in so long, so I really miss her. She's not the best actress, but I enjoy watching her. She's very pretty and I hope to see further improvement from her. Steven Ma and Moses Chan are always great to watch, so I know they won't disappoint. While I think Tavia Yeung's performances are always stable, she hasn't won me over yet. Like I've said before, I think her role of "Kiu Jun" should do the trick. The storyline about the first bank of China is fresh and the theme of the "commercial war" sounds very intriguing. I just cannot wait to watch this series!

series 411: "maidens' vow"

English Title: Maidens' Vow
Cantonese Title: Fung Wong Sei Chung Jau
Vietnamese Title: So Phan Hong Nhan
Casts: Charmaine Sheh, Joe Ma, Sammul Chan, Sherming Yiu, etc.
Length: 30 episodes (Cantonese) // 23 tapes (Vietnamese)
Release Date: August 2006 (Canto) // November 2006 (Viet)
Genre: Ancient/Period/Modern Drama

Note: Please credit "MetalAZNWarrior" and/or this site if you should use my translation of the series' plot! I worked hard to translate it, so please don't just steal or use it for another site without my permission and/or credit. Thank you!

Synopsis:
Women's perspective has sympathy
Men's perspective is clear after soberness
A hundred years of relationships between two sexes face observation

One family's business passes through four generations of women and their destinies, reflecting the marital relationships of different eras; women face all kinds of pressure.

At the end of the Qing dynasty, Ngai Ju Fung's (Charmaine Sheh Sze Man) family fortune is on the decline. She has no choice but to marry Wong Yuk Lun (Sammul Chan Gin Fung). However, he ruins his family's business. Fung is forced to sell the gift that her first love, Yue Chi (Joe Ma Dak Chung), gave her in order to open The Phoenix ("Fung Wong Lau"). Her story reflects the pain and sorrow of arranged marriages and shows how women can firmly face and resolve great oppositions.

During the May 4th (1919) event, Fung's daughter, Wong Jee Gwan (Charmaine) falls for her teacher, Li Gat Cheung (Joe) and they plan to elope in Tianjin. However, the two end up parting. Gwan returns to Beijing to find The Phoenix close to a demise. Her story reflects the strives that women make for marital freedom, ending up fending for themselves.

In the 1960's, Fung's great-granddaughter, Bak Wai Jan (Charamine) works in secret, unbeknownst to her husband, Dai Lap Yan (Joe). Out of retaliation, Yan has an affair. Their marriage comes to an end. However, this brings the two to work hand-in-hand for the better of The Phoenix. Her story reflects how women's fight for equality ends up with an interesting outcome.

In the twenty-first century, Fung's great-great-granddaughter, Dai Sze Ga (Charmaine) and Fong Ga On (Joe) end their cohabitation because they don't want to be restrained. After the separation, Ga takes hold of her family's long-time business and adds a new branch to it, extending its longevity. Her story reflects the freedom that women have gained at the expense of losing life's focus.

My thoughts: I was quite impressed with Maidens' Vow's poster when I first saw it. I loved the way TVB designed it and how it reflects the changing eras. In a way, it reminds me of my own layout in which I created Virtues of Harmony's timeless looks through the ages. However, I wasn't very interested in the series because it seemed a bit dull from news and the cast doesn't impress me much. After seeing all of the clips and pictures that Sehseh updated to her blog, my curiosity towards this series rose.

It seems quite interesting and I love the idea of the "four generations." The costumes are great and it's so nice to see so many different looks in one series! I've always been fond of "big" series as well and there are certainly a lot of characters in here! After translating the synopsis, my interest in Maidens' is pretty much set in concrete. The storyline seems quite good and intriguing; I look forward to seeing it. I hope it will live up to how great it looks and sounds. Still, there's one thing I don't have hope for - Joe Ma's acting. He is always so boring! I reckon the other casts should make the show lively. Charmaine Sheh looks pretty nice in most of her looks.