Thursday, December 28, 2006

Review: The Twelve Kingdoms

The Twelve Kingdoms is a series of novels written by Fuyumi Ono and popularized by an anime series of 45 episodes produced in 2002.

Tokyopop is publishing the translated young adult novels and the first volume Sea of Shadow, scheduled for release in March 2007, is the subject of this review.

Sea of Shadow is a gritty epic tale focused around Yoko Nakajima, a typical Japanese high school student who always seeks to please those around her. Suddenly one day, Yoko's life is changed forever when a strange boy named Keiki visits her along with an assortment of strange animal characters.

Suddenly she is taken away to another world across the "Void Sea" where 12 magical kingdoms are located. The fairy lands seem modeled around Japanese legends of Nenokuni and Niraikanai in the distant sea. During storms known as shoko, voyages between the two worlds are possible with some important limitations. However, she finds herself alone in the new land seemingly deserted by Keiki.

In this new world, Yoko undergoes a transformation of self-discovery as she must fight to survive often left completely on her own.

Ono creates a vivid environment, where people read and write using Chinese characters, but look quite different from people in Japan. There are dreaded demons here to threaten the inhabitants. But Yoko soon finds that she has a completely unexpected meeting with destiny in this strange place.

Yoko must grow up quickly as she faces one obstacle after another before discovering the secret hinted to her at the beginning of the tale by the mysterious Keiki. In the end, she is forced to make a difficult decision in which she must weigh various options, all of which demand sacrifice on her part.

In the Twelve Kingdoms, Yoko protects herself with a magical sword and magical stone given to her by Keiki. She manages to wield the sword against demons and other treats through an imaginative device thought up by Ono.

The story is a well-written adventure dealing with unexpected turns of life that can thrust one into strange and trying circumstances that can challenge your belief in yourself. The tale also deals well with a person's learning to trust again after repeated betrayal.

Fuyumi Ono, a Buddhist Studies graduate turned mystery/horror writer, does a good job at exploring the pyschological trials of her young main character Yoko as she tries to find the reasons for her presence in the new world across the sea.


The Twelve Kingdoms: Sea of Shadow (Vol. 1) by Fuyumi Ono, 352 pages, available March 2005 published by Tokyopop.

Sunday, December 17, 2006

Tiger Woods takes lead at Challenge

Tiger Woods made two birdies to take the lead at the Target World Challenge on Friday after the second round of play.

Woods is shooting for his 11th title win this year.

Henrik Stenson of Sweden trails Woods by one shot and leads Geoff Ogilvy and Chris diMarco by one shot.

U.S. golfer Tiger Woods laughs as he walks toward the 18th green during the second round of the Target World Challenge golf tournament in Thousand Oaks, California, December 15, 2006. REUTERS/Robert Galbraith (UNITED STATES)
Tiger Woods strols toward the 18th green during the second round of the Target World Challenge golf tournament in Thousand Oaks, California, December 15, 2006. REUTERS/Robert Galbraith photo via Yahoo News.

Saturday, November 18, 2006

Cheryl Burke may be Dancing's MVP

Professional dancer Cheryl Burke helped her partner football legend Emmitt Smith win the highly-popular Dancing with the Stars reality competition -- the second time for her in the last two seasons.

Judge Len Goodman said the Filipino American Burke "should be MVP -- Most Valued Partner" after bringing her partner the trophy for the second straight season.

In this handout photo made available by ABC, Emmitt Smith and Cheryl Burke, celebrate their win and display the mirrorball trophy on 'Dancing with the Stars the Results Show,' in Los Angeles on Wednesday Nov. 15,2006. (AP Photo/Adam Larkey-ABC,HO)
Emmitt Smith and Cheryl Burke, celebrate their win and display the mirrorball trophy on 'Dancing with the Stars the Results Show,' in Los Angeles on Wednesday Nov. 15,2006. AP Photo/Adam Larkey-ABC handout via Yahoo News.

Smith, who confessed to having only club dancing experience previously, learned quickly under Burke's tutelage and quickly mastered the required steps.

Sherri Bautista Burke, the mother of the dancing instructor and a dancer herself, served as an early inspiration for her daughter and helped rally support for the dancing couple during the competition.

Sunday, November 12, 2006

Ronato Alcano wins world pool championship

Unseeded Ronato "Calamba" Alcano of the Philippines defeated seventh-seed Ralf Souquet in convincing fashion to win the 2006 World Pool Championship (WPC) in Manila.

Alcano led the match most of the way surprising many as Souqet was a big favorite after beating a number of the top seeds in the tournament.

The Laguna native whose previous win in the WPC was the round of 64 in 2005, pocketed the $100,000 top purse, while Souquet earned $40,000.

The crowd cheers as Philippines' Ronato Alcano carries his trophy after winning against Germany's Ralf Souquet during the World Pool Championship final in Manila, Philippines, on Sunday, Nov. 12, 2006. Alcano beat Souquet 17-10. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)
Ronato Alcano of the Philippines lifts his trophy before a jubilant hometown crowd after winning against Germany's Ralf Souquet during the World Pool Championship final in Manila, Philippines, on Sunday, Nov. 12, 2006. Alcano beat Souquet 17-10. AP Photo/Aaron Favila via Yahoo News.

Friday, November 10, 2006

Liu, Luat move on to world pool quaterfinals

Rodolfo Luat of the Philippines and Taiwan's Liu Cheng-chuan secured berths in the world pool championship quaterfinals in Manila on Friday.

Lie defeated Cananda's Tyler Edey, and Luat barely held off Spain's David Alcaide known as "El Matador."

World's top pool players hold the prize trophy before the start of a news conference for the World Pool Championships at a hotel in Manila November 3, 2006. The 2006 World Pool championships is to get underway in Manila with 128 of the world's leading players from 42 countries competing for a winner's purse valued at $100,000, the biggest prize yet in the 17-year tournament. In photo from L-R: Alex Pagulayan, Philippines; Thorsten Hohmann, Germany; Efren Bata Reyes, Philippines; Wu Chia-Ching, a defending champion from Taiwan; Francisco 'Django' Bustamante, Philippines; Mika Immonen, Finland, and Rodney Morris, Hawaii, U.S.A.  (PHILIPPINES)
The world's best pool players hold the prize trophy before the start of a news conference for the World Pool Championships at a hotel in Manila November 3, 2006. REUTERS/Romeo Ranoco via Yahoo News.

Filipino players have been under pressure to perform before their hometown crowds. The two best-known locals Efren "Bata" Reyes and Francisco "Django" Bustamante have fallen out of the tourney.

Fourteen other players are competing for the remaining six quarterfinal slots leading to a $100,000 check for the tournament winner.

Monday, October 30, 2006

Tiger Woods to take rest

Tiger Woods opted out of next week's Tour Championship in Atalanta ending his PGA Tour for 2006.

Woods said he needed more rest after a tight schedule of playing seven out of the last nine weeks.

'I'm confident that this extended break will help me to recharge my batteries for the 2007 season,' he said.

Woods is next scheduled to compete at the HSBC Champions Tournament in China in two weeks' time.

Tiger Woods is interviewed during the launch of the EA Sports Tiger Woods PGA Tour 07 video game in Los Angeles, October 10, 2006. The world number one says he will not play in next week's season-ending Tour Championship in Atlanta. (Chris Pizzello/Reuters)
Tiger Woods in an interview during the launch of the EA Sports Tiger Woods PGA Tour 07 video game in Los Angeles, October 10, 2006. Chris Pizzello/Reuters photo via Yahoo News.

Thursday, October 19, 2006

Zhang Ziyi appointed to film committee

Chinese film star Zhang Ziyi was appointed vice director of the Chinese Young Film Workers this week.

Zhang will help promote Chinese films on the international market as part of her new position.

The committee is led by actor Zhang Guoli and its goal is to strengthen China's film industry and to expand its influence to worldwide audiences.

Zhang Ziyi appointed to film committee

Chinese film star Zhang Ziyi was appointed vice director of the Chinese Young Film Workers this week.

Zhang will help promote Chinese films on the international market as part of her new position.

The committee is led by actor Zhang Guoli and its goal is to strengthen China's film industry and to expand its influence to worldwide audiences.

Thursday, October 12, 2006

Bata Reyes waits for half-million from pool championship

Philippine billiards great Bata Reyes still has not seen his $500,000 prize, the largest in the game, after winning the International Pool Tour World Open 8-Ball championship at the Grand Resort and Casino in Reno, Nevada.

Reyes at 52 continues to amaze younger players with his longevity, but he may be losing some of his classic coolness awaiting the big payoff.

Multi-millionaire Kevin Trudeau, founder of the International Pool Tour, has assured Reyes that he will receive his money.


Bata Reyes, 52, with IPT founder Kevin Trudeau. Source: International Pool Tour.

Saturday, September 30, 2006

Tiger Woods leads at America Express, eyes sixth straight win

Tiger Woods came back from a bad start to take a six shot lead at the American Express Championship Saturday.

Woods made three straight eagles Saturday to lead after the 54th hole. He is 37-3 on the PGA Tour when he has a 54th hole lead.


U.S. golfer Tiger Woods plays from the 4th hole during the 3rd round of the American Express Golf Championship at The Grove, Chandler's Cross, England, Saturday Sept. 30, 2006. AP Photo/Tom Hevezi via Yahoo News.

No opponent has beaten Woods when he has a lead in the final round by more than one shot, so it looks like the star golfer is on his way to a sixth straight PGA win.

If Woods wins eight titles this year it will match his record of 2000, which many analysts thought he would never reach again.

Monday, September 25, 2006

'Fearless' Jet Li's last martial arts flick?

According to the distributors, the recently released film Fearless will be Jet Li's last martial arts "epic" although he may make other types of movies.

It seems though that this may only apply to epic-scale costume dramas as Li is already slated to appear in other action films such as one scheduled to shoot next April with Jackie Chan.

Fearless, a saga set in China a century ago, came in second on its opening weekend with $10.6 million at the box office.

In a file photo Chinese superstar Jet Li, sitting next to a promotional banner for his upcoming movie 'Fearless,' speaks during an interview in Beijing Wednesday, Jan. 18, 2006. In an interviewed published Sunday Sept. 17, 2006, Li noted that a quarter of a million people committed suicide in China in 2003, and he hopes his latest film, 'Jet Li's Fearless,' can help make a difference. (AP Photo/Elizabeth Dalziel)
In a file photo Chinese superstar Jet Li, sitting next to a promotional banner for his upcoming movie 'Fearless,' speaks during an interview in Beijing Wednesday, Jan. 18, 2006. In an interviewed published Sunday Sept. 17, 2006, Li noted that a quarter of a million people committed suicide in China in 2003, and he hopes his latest film, 'Jet Li's Fearless,' can help make a difference. (AP Photo/Elizabeth Dalziel)

Wednesday, September 13, 2006

No Filipinos allowed?

Black Eyed Pea Apl.de.Ap and director Patricio Ginelsa are having hard luck with their video Bebot, filmed in the Tagalog language.

Not only MTV but the video's own label is snubbing the video, and Asian/Filipino professors blasted it for its portrayal of Filipino women.


Scene from Bebot. Source: http://www.asiaarts.ucla.edu/article.asp?parentid=52374

The video partly covers the 1930s Little Manila environment when the law in Caliifornia excluded Asian men from marrying white women.

Filipino immigrant workers, having few women of their own, openly violated the social norms of the time, crossing state lines to marry white women in other states and opening dance clubs which featured the dances with buxom blonds.

In those days, "regular" establishments often displayed signs warning "No Filipinos allowed."

Now, Filipinos in showbiz are finding similar difficulties breaking into the U.S. media industry particularly in film and music.

Monday, September 04, 2006

Tiger scores fifth straight win

Tiger Woods surged past Vijay Singh to take his fifth straight PGA title Monday at the Deutsche Bank Championship.

Woods shot a stellar final round, equaling his career best, to take the tournament at the TPC of Boston in Norton, Massachusetts.

If Tiger wins his next championship he will tie his record of six straight wins which he has accomplished twice before.

Tiger Woods, seen here holding his trophy in Norton, MA, surged past Vijay Singh to seize his fifth straight PGA title in superb style at the Deutsche Bank Championship.(AFP/Getty Images/Scott Halleran)
Tiger Woods holds his trophy in Norton, MA, after rallying against Vijay Singh to seize his fifth straight PGA title in superb style at the Deutsche Bank Championship. AFP/Getty Images/Scott Halleran via Yahoo News.

Sunday, September 03, 2006

Chris Tucker ready to film "Rush Hour 3"

Tuning up with a stand-up comedy tour, Chris Tucker says he's ready and excited about working with Jackie Chan on Rush Hour 3.

Tucker wraps up his tour on Sept. 17 and filming begins in Paris on Sept. 25.

Tucker spent two months working on the last movie in the series, which he described as "culture shock."

Actor Chris Tucker arrives for the Apollo Theater 2006 Hall of Fame Induction ceremony at the Apollo Theater Foundations second annual Spring Benefit, on June 19, 2006 in New York. Tucker is about to begin shooting 'Rush Hour 3' with Jackie Chan in Paris on Sept. 25. But before the cameras roll, the motor-mouthed comedian was squeezing in a 21-city standup tour,his first official tour in nearly a decade. The tour began in June. (AP Photo/Dima Gavrysh)
Actor Chris Tucker at the Apollo Theater 2006 Hall of Fame Induction ceremony at the Apollo Theater Foundations second annual Spring Benefit, on June 19, 2006 in New York. AP Photo/Dima Gavrysh via Yahoo News.

Thursday, August 31, 2006

Jackie Chan says "have a heart for dogs"

Hong Kong martial arts star Jackie Chan called on China to "have a haeart for dogs" after thousands of animals were killed recently to fight a rabies outbreak, the animal rights group PETA said on Thursday.

Chan and PETA are campaigning to stop the mass killing of dogs and urging the use of vaccinations instead.

"With Jackies help, we hope to make dog culling a thing of the past," says PETA Asia-Pacific Director Jason Baker. "Humane rabies prevention programs not only save dogs lives, they also save human lives."

Dog owners take their pets for a morning walk in Beijing in April 2004. Hong Kong action star Jackie Chan has urged China to
Dog owners take their pets for a morning walk in Beijing in April 2004. Hong Kong action star Jackie Chan has urged China to "have a heart for dogs" after thousands of the animals have been killed to fight rabies outbreaks.(AFP/File/Frederic J. Brown)

Sunday, August 27, 2006

Tiger seizes lead at Bridgestone

Tiger Woods pulled out another win at the Bridgestone Invitational golf tournament Sunday marking his 52nd victory on the PGA tour.

Woods is the defending champion at this event and has previously won four times in the six times the tournament has been held at Firestone.

In related news, Tiger called for drug testing in golf to prevent the sue of perfomance-enhancing substances.

Tiger Woods of the U.S. hits out of the 18th hole bunker during the third sudden death hole of the WCG Bridgestone Invitational golf tournament in Akron, Ohio August 27, 2006. Woods defeated Stewart Cink on the fourth playoff hole. REUTERS/Aaron Josefczyk (UNITED STATES)
Tiger Woods hits out of the 18th hole bunker during the third sudden death hole of the WCG Bridgestone Invitational golf tournament in Akron, Ohio August 27, 2006. REUTERS/Aaron Josefczyk photo via Yahoo News.

Tuesday, August 22, 2006

Koeran star Eugene Kim picked to promote Philippine tourism

Korean actress Eugene Kim arrived in Manila Thursday to begin a series of visits to popular Philippine tourist destinations.

Her trip will be covered by a Korean TV network and by print media accorsing to the Department of Tourism (DOT), which picked Kim to promote the country to the lucrative South Korean travel market.

Kim is popular in the country through the Korean telenovelas Save the Last Dance for Me and Wonderful Life. Her appearance on the highly-popular show Wowowee was a hit with Philippine audiences.


Koreanovela star Eugene Kim

Sunday, August 20, 2006

Tiger Woods coasts to PGA win

Tiger Woods Sunday easily won the PGA Championship by five strokes for his third straight victory since the British Open.

Woods now has 12 career majors and has his longest tournament winning streak in five years.

He continued to show his skill as a finisher when holding a lead in the final round. This was also the fifth major Woods has won by at least five shots.

Tiger Woods celebrates after winning the 88th PGA Championship golf tournament at Medinah Country Club Sunday, Aug. 20, 2006, in Medinah, Ill. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Tiger Woods celebrates after winning the 88th PGA Championship golf tournament at Medinah Country Club on Sunday, Aug. 20, 2006, in Medinah, Ill. AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall via Yahoo News.

Wednesday, August 16, 2006

Zhang Ziyi still down to earth

Actress Zhang Ziyi shaved her eyebrows and served soup to the crew during the filiming of upcoming film The Banquet, director Feng Xiaogang said in a recent interview.

Despite her success in Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, Rush Hour 2 and Memoirs, she still remains an easy person to work with according to Feng.

"The Banquet" is inspired by the Shakespeare play "Hamlet."

Chinese actress Zhang Ziyi smiles as she arrives for the world premiere of her movie 'Sayuri,' at Tokyo's national sumo arena in this Nov. 29, 2005 file photo. Zhang didn't act like a prima donna on the set of a recent Chinese movie despite her newfound Hollywood fame, shaving her eyebrows for her role and serving homemade soup to workers, the film's director said. (AP Photo/Itsuo Inouye)
Chinese actress Zhang Ziyi smiles at the crowd during the world premiere of her movie 'Sayuri,' at Tokyo's national sumo arena on Nov. 29, 2005. Zhang didn't act like a prima donna on the set of The Banquet despite her newfound Hollywood fame, shaving her eyebrows for her role and serving homemade soup to workers, the film's director said. AP Photo/Itsuo Inouye via Yahoo News.

Friday, August 11, 2006

Lou Diamond Philipps arrested for alleged domestic abuse

Lou Diamond Philipps, famed for his roles in "La Bamba" and "Young Guns" was arrested for alleged domestic abuse, Los Angeles police authorities said

"There was a verbal argument which escalated into physical abuse, and he was charged with cohabitant abuse," said Los Angeles Police Department spokesperson, Sandra Escalante

Philipps who has recently made television appearances on Law and Order: SVU is being held on 50,000 dollars bail at the Devonshire Police Station.

Actor Lou Diamond Phillips seen here in January 2006 in Los Angeles, California. Phillips was arrested in a Los Angeles suburb for alleged domestic abuse, according to authorities.(AFP/Getty Images/File/Kevin Winter)
Actor Lou Diamond Phillips in a file photo from January 2006 in Los Angeles, California. Phillips was arrested in a Los Angeles suburb for alleged domestic abuse, according to authorities. AFP/Getty Images/File/Kevin Winter via Yahoo News.

Friday, August 04, 2006

Vijay Singh, Tiger Woods challenge Weir at Buick Open

Vijay Singh is king at the Buick Open where he as won three times and one of only two players to successfully defend a title at the tournament.

Singh is close on the heels of leader Mike Weir of Canada after rain disrupted the first round of play.

Vijay Singh tees off on the 9th hole during the first round of the Buick Open in Grand Blanc, Michigan. Singh shot an 8 under 64 trailing leader Canadian Mike Weir by one shot.(AFP/Getty Images/Jonathan Ferrey)
Vijay Singh tees off on the 9th hole during the first round of the Buick Open in Grand Blanc, Michigan. Rain cut play in the first round short. AFP/Getty Images/Jonathan Ferrey via Yahoo News.

Tiger Woods, who won the British Open last month, is three shots back.

Singh is ranked No. 3 in the world but failed to make the cut at the British Open two weeks ago.

Thursday, August 03, 2006

Jackie Chan and Jet Li move closer to movie deal

Jackie Chan and Jet Li are moving closer to a movie deal, Chan said Tuesday while promoting his new action comedy Rob-B-Hood.

"All the hurdles have been overcome. The only problem left is the script," Chan told the Associated Press.

Jackie Chan attends a press conference to promote their upcoming action comedy 'Rob-B-Hood,' in Hong Kong Tuesday, Aug. 1, 2006. Chan said his much-anticipated collaboration with Jet Li is nearly a sealed deal. (AP Photo/ Lo Sai-hung)
Jackie Chan at a press conference to promote his upcoming action comedy 'Rob-B-Hood,' in Hong Kong Tuesday, Aug. 1, 2006. AP Photo/ Lo Sai-hung via Yahoo News.

"We need a script that he approves and I approve. If that goes well, shooting will start in March or April in Shanghai," he said.

Chan also said he will soon begin shooting on the third of the Rush Hour film series with Chris Tucker. The movie should be completed by March or April of next year.

Tuesday, July 25, 2006

Shyamalan film struggles to stay afloat

M. Night Shyamalan's first film since leaving Disney tanked at the box office at least according to the standards used to judge one of Hollywood's most successful directors.

Lady in the Water a fantasy about water nymphs called "narfs" and wolf-like creatures called "scrunts" came in at No. 3 over the weekend behind Disney's "Pirates" and Sony's animated Monster House.

Director M. Night Shyamalan and Paul Giamatti on the set of 'Lady in the Water' from Warner Bros. Pictures.
Director M. Night Shyamalan and Paul Giamatti on the set of 'Lady in the Water' from Warner Bros. Pictures. Handout/Reuters photo via Yahoo News.

The film opened to poor reviews but still managed to take in $18.2 million over the weekend.

Shyamalan has also been in the news lately over his possibly directing one of the remaining Harry Potter films.

Sunday, July 23, 2006

Tiger Woods wins British Open

Tiger Woods won a hard-fought victory at the 135th British Open on Sunday, his first tournament win since the death of his father Earl Woods.

Woods broke into tears in his wife's arms after the tough emotional win: ""After my last putt, I realized my Dad is never going to see this again. I wish he could have seen this one last time. I tried at Augusta (the Masters) and it did not happen. But he was out there today, keeping me calm. I had a very calm feeling the entire week and especially today. Certainly I was thinking about a chance to say that I love my Dad and I miss him very much," he said.

It was Tiger's third British Open championship and his 11th major tournament win.

Tiger Woods of the United States is embraced by his wife Elin after winning the British Open Golf Championship at the Royal Liverpool Golf Course in Hoylake, England Sunday July 23, 2006. (AP Photo)
Tiger Woods of the United States is embraced by his wife Elin after winning the British Open Golf Championship at Royal Liverpool Golf Course in Hoylake, United Kingdom Sunday July 23, 2006. AP Photo via Yahoo News.

Saturday, July 22, 2006

Tiger Woods holds one stroke lead in British Open

Tiger Woods held on to the lead by one stroke Saturday after three rounds at the British Open.

Woods held off a rally by Sergio Garcia who shot a 65 at Royal Liverpool.

A hard day of putting prevented Tiger from pulling away, but he still is in his best position yet to pull off a much-anticipated majors victory.

Tiger Woods maintained a slim one-stroke lead at the British Open on Saturday. AFP/John D McHugh
Tiger Woods maintained a slim one-stroke lead at the British Open on Saturday. AFP/John D McHugh via Yahoo News.

Sunday, July 09, 2006

Vijay Singh grabs lead, Woods moves up

Vijay Singh took the lead at the Western Open golf tournament Saturday as Tiger Woods moved up the leaderboard.

Singh of Fiji is two strokes ahead of the pack after three rounds at Cog Hill Golf Club in Lemont, Illinois.

Woods shot a five-under-par 66 and trails Singh by three strokes.


Vijay Singh of Fiji and Tiger Woods of Florida at the Western Open, Cog Hill Golf Club, Lemont, Illinois, July 8, 2006. Reuters photos via Yahoo News.

Saturday, July 08, 2006

Tiger rebounds, Chopra takes lead at Western Open

Tiger Woods came back from a rough start to stay in contention at the Western Open on Friday.

Woods is seven shots behind leader Daniel Chopra who holds a two-stroke lead over second place Vijay Singh.

This is Tiger's second tournament after the death of his father, Earl Woods. He was eliminated in the first round for the first time in his career during the U.S. Open in June.


Tiger Woods, left, and tournament leader Daniel Chopra of Sweden at the Western Open, Friday, July 7, 2006, at Cog Hill Golf Club in Lemont, Ill. AP photos via Yahoo News.

Nigeria: We'll Get a Nigerian Tiger Woods But Not Now - Diette-Spiff

Tuesday, July 04, 2006

Wie and Nirapathpongporn in HSBC Women's World Match Play Championship

Virada Nirapathpongporn of Thailand will face U.S. women's Open champion Annika Sorenstam while Hawai`i's Michelle Wie will open against Candy Hannemann on Thursday in the HSBC Women's World Match Play Championship.

The 64th-seeded Nirapathpongporn won the 2002 NCAA individual title for Duke and the 2003 U.S. Women's Amateur.

The 16-year-old Wie earned a spot as the second seed as the No. 2 player in the new world rankings. Most recently Wie tied for third place at the Women's Open.

Virada Nirapathpongporn of Thailand at U.S. Women's Open golf championship at the Newport Country Club in Newport, Rhode Island, June 30, 2006.
Virada Nirapathpongporn of Thailand at U.S. Women's Open golf championship at the Newport Country Club in Newport, Rhode Island, June 30, 2006. Reuters photo via Yahoo News.

Michelle Wie of the U.S. reacts to her shot on the 13th green of the U.S. Women's Open golf championship at the Newport Country Club in Newport, Rhode Island July 2, 2006. REUTERS/Jessica Rinaldi (UNITED STATES)
Michelle Wie after her shot on the 13th green of the U.S. Women's Open golf championship, July 2, 2006. REUTERS/Jessica Rinaldi photo via Yahoo News.

Tuesday, June 27, 2006

Shyamalan blasts Disney in new book

M. Night Shyamalan, whose name alone brings monetary success to his films, lashed out at his old studio in a new book published next month.

Shyamalan left Disney, where he made all his successful films including The SIxth Sense, Signs and The Village, after disagreement over his new film Lady in the Water with the studio's producers.


M. Night Shyamalan, publicity photo.

A meeting with Disney execs in Philadelphia last February left Shyamalan in tears, and in the book he is particularly harsh on his former mentor Nina Jacobson.

The eerie film director bolted to Warner Brothers which is releasing Lady in the Water on July 21.

Friday, June 23, 2006

'Death Note' tops 'Da Vinci' for Japan box office

Death Note based on a popular manga comic topped The Da Vinci Code at the Japanese box office with US$4.13 million in its first two days.

Starring Tatsuya Fujiwara, the film tells the story of boy genius Raito Yagami, who can kill anyone he wants simply by writing their name in a notebook.

A second movie in the series is due to open in November, while Nippon Television Network plans an animated version.

Experts were surprised though that the movie was able to knock out The Da Vinci Code which has been going strong since its opening. The latter movie topped the world box office for the fifth straight week.

The Da Vinci Code has reportedly earned about US$680 million.

Thursday, June 22, 2006

Keanu Reeves ready to tie knot?

Matrix star Keanu Reeves reportedly inspired by tales of marital bliss from The Lake House co-star Sandra Bullock has proposed to girlfriend Claire Forlani, according to news reports.

Forlani, who co-stars in Meet Joe Black, has been dating Reeves for three years. She grew up in London and moved to the United States at the age of 20.

Reeves reportedly popped the question at Wolfgang Puck's new Hollywood restarurant Cut.

Actor Keanu Reeves leaves the backstage area at the O2 Wireless Festival 2006 in Hyde Park in central London June 21, 2006. REUTERS/Leon Neal (BRITAIN)
Actor Keanu Reeves leaves the backstage area at the O2 Wireless Festival 2006 in Hyde Park in central London June 21, 2006. REUTERS/Leon Neal (BRITAIN) from Yahoo News.

Tuesday, June 20, 2006

Samsara finally opens in India

Pan Nalin's award-winning film Samsara is due for release on June 23 long after the movie debuted in 2001.

The film's controversial plot is centered around a monk in Ladakh, but the director is relatively unknown in India and there are no big stars in the movie.

Samsara though won the Paris-based Indian director 30 awards at film festivals worldwide.

Nalin's next pic Valley of Flowers deals with the subject of reincarnation and does sport some big Bollywoood names -- Naseeruddin Shah and Milind Soman.

Monday, June 19, 2006

South Korea scores World Cup draw against France

South Korea moved a bit closer to the final 16 of the World Cup after a come-from-behind draw with France on Sunday.

Semi-finalists in 2002, the South Koreans have four points in Group G. Switzerland meets Togo on Monday, and the final group matches will pit South Korea against the Swiss and France versus Togo.

France is in danger of elimination in the first round for the second straight time in World Cup competition.

South Korea's Cho Won-hee, right, and Chung Kyung-ho train in Leverkusen for the World Cup soccer tournament, June 19, 2006. REUTERS/Kim Kyung-Hoon (GERMANY)
South Korea's Cho Won-hee, right, and Chung Kyung-ho train in Leverkusen for the World Cup soccer tournament, June 19, 2006. REUTERS/Kim Kyung-Hoon photo from Yahoo News.

Saturday, June 17, 2006

Tiger Woods fails to make cut for first time in career

Coming off the longest layoff of his career, Tiger Woods failed to make the first cut for the first time as a pro at the U.S. Open on Friday.

Wood said he may play at the Western Open in early July as a tuneup for the British Open.

Tiger Woods reacts while in the rough on the first hole during the first round of the U.S. Open at Winged Foot Golf Club on Friday, June 16, 2006, in Mamaroneck, N.Y. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)
Tiger Woods on the green during the first round of the U.S. Open at Winged Foot Golf Club on Friday, June 16, 2006, in Mamaroneck, N.Y. AP Photo/Charles Krupa from Yahoo News.

Thursday, June 15, 2006

World Cup: South Korea to play France on Sunday

South Korea may again be Asia's hope for the World Cup.

In 2002, South Korea finished third overall, the best Asian performance. This year they again look like Asia's hot team and are set to go against France on Sunday.

Dutch born head coach Dick Advocaat of the national soccer team of South Korea, left, is pictured with his team during a training session in Leverkusen, Germany, Thursday, June 15, 2006. South Korea plays at the FIFA World Cup in Group A with Germany, Costa Rica and Ecuador. (AP Photo/Martin Meissner)
The South Korean soccer team during a training session with Dutch-born head coach Dick Advocaat in Leverkusen, Germany, Thursday, June 15, 2006. South Korea plays at the FIFA World Cup in Group A with Germany, Costa Rica and Ecuador. They will face the French national team on Sunday. AP Photo/Martin Meissner from Yahoo News.

Wednesday, June 14, 2006

Tiger Woods prepares for return

Tiger Woods will play for the first time since his father's death in May when he starts the first round of the 106th United States Open at Winged Foot tomorrow.

The last time he played was at the Masters tournament more than two months ago.

Tiger Woods walks off the 18th tee after a practice round at the Winged Foot Golf Club in New York on June 14, 2006.
Tiger Woods walks off the 18th tee after a practice round at the Winged Foot Golf Club in New York on June 14, 2006. AP photo from Yahoo News.

Woods told the press that he had a hard time getting back on the golf course for practice because of the memories it brought back of his father. But as he continued, he found that he "always had a smile" on his face remembering the lessons his father taught him through "the game of golf."

This is not the first time Woods has come back from a long idle period. After knee surgery in 2002 and last winter, he took long breaks but was able to come back fresh and win.

Tuesday, June 13, 2006

Ang Lee casts spy thriller in Taiwan

Academy Award-winning director Ang Lee was in Taipei last week casting his new film Lust, Caution scheduled to start shooting in September.

Film director Ang Lee in Taipei on January 19, 2006.
Film director Ang Lee in Taipei on January 19, 2006. AP photo from Yahoo News.

According to his younger brother Lee Kang, the elder Ang met with Zhang Ziyi and Zhou Xun, who won the best actress title at the last Hong Kong Film Awards.

Based on a novel by late author Eileen Chang, Lust, Caution, the film is set in Shanghai during World War II.

Lee will shoot the film in Taipei and Hong Kong.

Thursday, June 08, 2006

China pulls Da Vinci Code

China pulled The Da Vinci Code from theaters in an apparent business move to make room for local films.

Despite protests from China's Catholic Church, the country permitted the movie's release, which predated even the 'official' premiere at the Cannes film festival.

A scene from 'The Da Vinci Code' which is still going strong in international markets.
A scene from 'The Da Vinci Code' which is still going strong in international markets. Reuters photo from Yahoo News.

Da Vinci Code is now Sony's biggest international money-maker ever pulling in close to $600 million in global box office sales, despite the growing number of countries banning the movie.

In Japan and more than a dozen European countries, Da Vinci Code still leads the charts in ticket sales.


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Wednesday, June 07, 2006

Michelle Wie set for busy summer schedule

Young golfing sensation Michelle Wie is out of school for summer and ready to play on a professional schedule starting this week at Bulle Rock.

Michelle Wie throws out ceremonial pitch to start American League Baseball season on June 6, 2006 at Baltimore, Maryland.
16-year-old Michelle Wie throws out ceremonial pitch to start American League Baseball season on June 6, 2006 at Baltimore, Maryland. Reuters photo from Yahoo News.

The 16-year-old failed to become the first woman to qualify for the U.S. Open, but is setting her sights instead on performing in the LPGA Championship.

Wie has six tournaments scheduled this summer.

She will play in the McDonald`s LPGA Championship,the U.S. Women`s Open on June 29, and then head to the Women`s World Match Play Championship. Then she's off to the John Deere Classic on the PGA Tour, followed by the Evian Masters and Women`s British Open.

Michelle Wie already makes more money than the best players on the LPGA tour.

Monday, June 05, 2006

China plans Bruce Lee movie to coincide with Olympics

China's official broadcaster CCTV is set to make a 40 episode television series on the life of martial arts legend Bruce Lee.

Scheduled to debut in 2008 in conjunction with the Beijing Olympic Games, the series will target a global audience.

A number of popular Chinese actors are competing to play the martial arts superstar in The Legend of Bruce Lee.

Tourists walk past a bronze statue of Bruce Lee in Hong Kong.
Tourists walk past a bronze statue of Bruce Lee in Hong Kong. AFP photo from Yahoo News.



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Saturday, June 03, 2006

Wang Chao wins sideline Cannes award

The movie Luxury Car by Chinese director Wang Chao won the main sideline competition at the Cannes Film Festival.

The film about about encounters between a prostitute and her family won the "Un Certain Regard" award of the festival.

Wang Chao won the Un Certain Regard Award at Cannes for 'Luxury Car'.
Wang Chao won the Un Certain Regard Award at Cannes for 'Luxury Car'. 2004 AFP file photo from Yahoo News.

Wang Chao will receive EUR5,000 ($6,500) in prize money and a three-month screenwriting residency.

He returned to China sunburned after relaxing at the Cannes beaches without using suntan lotion.


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Thursday, June 01, 2006

Tamil Nadu bans Da Vinci Code

Tamil Nadu became the fourth Indian state to ban the movie The Da Vinci Code following Nagaland, Gujarat and Goa.

Christians, who form a significant minority in the South Indian state, staged protests at the capital Chennai on Wednesday.

Police officers patrol in front of a Mumbai theater showing 'The Da Vinci Code'.
Police officers patrol in front of a Mumbai theater showing 'The Da Vinci Code'. AFP photo from Yahoo News.

"The screening of the film may lead to demonstrations and disturb peace in the state," said an admistratation statement released Wednesday night.

Christians make up less than two percent of India's entire population but constitute the majority or large minorities in some states.

The Da Vinci Code opened to full houses in New Delhi last weekend. Some opponents say the movie mixes in "New Age" beliefs with traditional Christian doctrine, including some aspects of the "Divine Feminine" often linked popularly with Indian culture.



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Wednesday, May 31, 2006

Wong Kar-Wai: Zhang is bold juror

Cannes Film Festival jury president Wong Kar-Wai said that actress Zhang Ziyi was bold in giving her opinions despite her young age.

Cannes jurors Wong Kar-Wai, Zhang Ziyi and Samuel L. Jackson on May 28.
Cannes jurors Wong Kar-Wai, Zhang Ziyi and Samuel L. Jackson on May 28. Reuters photo from Yahoo News.

"Even though she's very young, she's made quite a few movies. She's bold in expressing herself, so there isn't an issue of being timid because she's less experienced," Wong said.

Zhang and Wong worked together in the movie 2046 released in 2004.

The Cannes jury announces major awards on Sunday.

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Monday, May 29, 2006

Tiger Woods may be preparing for U.S. Open

Tiger Woods practiced Saturday at Winged Foot golf course, site of next' month's U.S> Open, according to the golfer's official website.

Woods has been on leave from the pro circuit since April when he played the Masters to be with his dying father Earl, who passed away on May 3.

File photo of Tiger Woods with dad Earl in 2005.
File photo of Tiger Woods with dad Earl in 2005. Canadian Press photo from Yahoo News.

If Tiger wins, it will be his 11th major tournament win bringing him one step closer to Jack Nicklaus' record of 18 major titles.

The world number one player has only one other tournament at Winged Foot, the 1997 PGA Championship where he came in 29th place.


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Tiger Woods may be preparing for U.S. Open

Tiger Woods practiced Saturday at Winged Foot golf course, site of next' month's U.S> Open, according to the golfer's official website.

Woods has been on leave from the pro circuit since April when he played the Masters to be with his dying father Earl, who passed away on May 3.

File photo of Tiger Woods with dad Earl in 2005.
File photo of Tiger Woods with dad Earl in 2005. Canadian Press photo from Yahoo News.

If Tiger wins, it will be his 11th major tournament win bringing him one step closer to Jack Nicklaus' record of 18 major titles.

The world number one player has only one other tournament at Winged Foot, the 1997 PGA Championship where he came in 29th place.


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Saturday, May 27, 2006

Hanks hires bodyguards, Da Vinci Code prequel in works

Tom Hanks has reportedly hired bodyguards to protect himself and his family after release of The Da Vinci Code movie.

Police patrol outside an Indian theater showing the Da Vinci Code.
Bombay police patrol outside a theater showing The Da Vinci Code on May 26. AP photo from Yahoo News.

According to a British newspaper, Hanks considered it a necessary precaution as some religious people might be taking the movie too seriously.

Meanwhile, Sony Pictures has hired Akiva Goldsman to write a rush prequel script based on Dan Brown's novel Angels and Demons.

The movie will also have the same production team as The Da Vinci Code but no word yet on whether director Ron Howard or Hanks will return to their old roles.




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Friday, May 26, 2006

Michael Jackson headed to Japan for Asian tour

Michael Jackson is headed to Tokyo to accept an MTV Japan "Legend Award" and to kick off the start of his Asian tour.

Michael Jackson
Michael Jackson is set to kick off Asian tour. EOnline Photo from Yahoo News.

Jackson will also be performing in Hong Kong, Shanghai and Singapore. This is his first tour and public appearance since acquittal last June.

The pop idol's spokesperson Raymone K. Bain said Jackson was looking forward to seeing old friends and fans in Japan, and that he continues to work on a song to benefit victims of Hurricane Katrina.




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Wednesday, May 24, 2006

Da Vinci Code cracks record

The Da Vinci Code movie established a new record opening earning a whopping $152.6 million in five days.

Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith held the previous record set the same time last year at $144.8 million.

US actor Tom Hanks, right, stands with French actress Audrey Tautou, below right, and US Director Ron Howard, front left with Paul Bettany, top left, and Sir Ian McKellen, top right, following the naming of a Eurostar train 'The Da Vinci Code' at Waterloo Station in London, Tuesday May 16, 2006. The Train is named after the book by author Dan Brown which has been made into a film staring Hanks and Tautou playing the leading roles, which has its World Premier in Cannes on May 17. The train which left with the cast and director of the film was attempting a world record time for the longest international non-stop train journey from London to Cannes. (AP Photo/Alastair Grant)
Tom Hanks, Audrey Tautou, Ron Howard, Paul Bettany and Sir Ian McKellen following the naming of a Eurostar train 'The Da Vinci Code' at Waterloo Station in London, Tuesday May 16, 2006. AP photo from Yahoo News.

A record was also established in Japan where the movie opened in more theaters than any other film. The Da Vinci Code did extremely well in Latin America and Europe. According to Sony Pictures, the film set a record or second best debut in each Latin American opening.

Records also fell in two strongly Catholic European countries -- Italy and Spain -- despite calls for a boycott from conservative Catholic groups.



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Tuesday, May 23, 2006

Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro recovering from injury

After a severe injury during the running of the Preakness Stakes, Barbaro appears to be making a comeback from a potentially life-threatening situation.

Many thought the undefeated colt had a chance at becoming the first Triple Crown winner in decades after easily winning the Kentucky Derby.

Barbaro rests in his stall after surgery to repair his broken leg at the intensive care unit of the University of Pennsylvania's New Bolton Center for Large Animals, Kennett Square, Pa., Tuesday, May 23, 2006.
Barbaro rests in his stall after surgery to repair his broken leg at the intensive care unit of the University of Pennsylvania's New Bolton Center for Large Animals, Kennett Square, Pa., Tuesday, May 23, 2006. AP photo from Yahoo News.

Barbaro's leg was broken into 20+ pieces, a type of injury that often leads to euthanization. Horses can suffer from circulatory problems and other complications if they cannot evenly distribute their weight on all four legs.

So far Barbaro is recovering well and is resting all day long in his stall. If he fully recovers he may become a stallion used for breeding other horses.

It seems rather peculiar to me that horses, animals that depend on their running ability in the wild to survive, could severely break their legs just by galloping. And it appears this is a rather common occurrence.

Are the horses overtrained? Have they been bred too large in frame for the type of racing in which they compete?




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Monday, May 22, 2006

Jet Li recalls Aaliyah while shooting "Rogue"

Martial arts star Jet Li said he was haunted by memories of singer and actress Aaliyah while filming Rogue in Vancouver, Canada according to a quote at the IGN.com website.

Aaliyah and Li filmed the movie Romeo Must Die in the same city.

Aaliyah
Aaliyah in 2001 file photo. AP photo from Yahoo News.

"I have some memories of this very beautiful city ... but it still makes me think about Aaliyah because I feel still we worked together here for a few months."

In other news, Li is said to be negotiating a deal with fellow martial arts sensation Jackie Chan for the first movie to feature both actors.



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Friday, May 19, 2006

Review of The Da Vinci Code

With all the hoopla this movie is causing in Asia, I've decided to review it myself as I differ with most of the reviews out so far.

To start off with I'm not a big movie buff and mostly watch independent-type films. I rarely see Hollywood blockbusters unless I'm tagging along on a family outing.

Also, I was not one of the 50 million or so people who read the Da Vinci Code book. So many of the scenes may have been more suspenseful for me than for reader-viewers. My expectations might also have been lower although I was not immune to all the publicity. I've seen more than a few documentaries and news specials devoted to the theme of Dan Brown's novel.

Another thing that might color my opinion is that I have more than a passing interest in things like "symbology," history and archaeology. So parts that may have bored others waiting for more action-packed gore, I found quite stimulating.

Character depth and development probably suffered because this film had a lot of historical matter to convey to the audience in a relatively short time. You won't find much going on romantically here, no heat generated between Langdon (Hank's character) and Sophie (Audrey Tautou).

That fact alone may have disappointed some critics. The need to relay much information cuts down on the time needed to convey emotion. Therefore, the action is not of the roller-coaster type and there are some disconnects in the emotional train.

However, the flashback scenes, especially the cuts to the medieval period are well done. The film has a fairly good medieval air, which is important to the atmosphere that one expects.

Sophie's character could have used more development in certain dimensions that are best not revealed here. The audience really needs to connect with her more in the early parts of the film. The car scene, though, when she flashbacks to her childhood is memorable.

Overall the acting is good, but not sensational. Probably the most intriguing relationship is that between Silas, the albino hitman, and the Opus Dei leader. Silas' character is well-developed from the emotional perspective.

Ian McKellan also does a great job as the scholarly expert on the "Priory of Sion." His acting though falls apart a bit, in my view, near the end.

Action in this film was quite good enough except maybe for hardcore adrenaline seekers. Not the type of thing that keeps you gripped to your seat, but more mental movement in trying to solve the next step of the puzzle. That could be a negative issue for those who have read the book, although as I understand Howard made some important story alterations with this in mind.

Not sure why the last 10 minutes of the film drew chuckles at the Cannes pre-preview. This was the same part of the movie that was cut out by Thai censors, but latter allowed after Columbia Pictures appealed the ruling. The ending to such a film must have been tremendously difficult and I think it was pulled off reasonably well.

In the end, it seems like the idea of the "sacred feminine," an underlying theme in the movie is ticking off both the church and critics, but maybe for different reasons. That might be an interesting study in itself. Some Catholic church leaders have characterized the book and film as the greatest challenge the faith has ever faced, which in my view is perplexing.

For those who like a good mystery, or a film that examines thoughtfully the history of the human condition, this film is recommended. Otherwise, you may want to follow Howard's advice and wait for reviews coming through the grapevine.





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Thursday, May 18, 2006

Wong Kar-Wai orders casual style for Cannes jurors

Cannes jury president Wong Kar-Wai emphasized that smoking and sunglasses would be allowed during jury meetings as the 2006 Festival de Cannes kicked off Wednesday.

Wong dressed in his trademark dark sunglasses was greeted at the opening with a clip from his movie 2046 and a live opera performance.

Cannes jury president Wong Kar-Wai with fellow jurors Monica Belluci and Zhang Ziyi.
Cannes jury president Wong Kar-Wai with fellow jurors Monica Belluci and Zhang Ziyi. AP photo from Yahoo News.

His compatriot, Zhang Ziyi, joins him on the jury and both fielded questions in Mandarin from the journalist pool. Zhang at age 27 is one of youngest Cannes jurors ever.

The entire jury consists of Palestinian director Elia Suleiman, U.S. actor Samuel L. Jackson , Argentine director Lucrecia Martel, Chinese actress Zhang Ziyi, Italian actress Monica Bellucci , British actor/director Tim Roth , British actress Helena Bonham-Carter and French director Patrice Leconte.

Wednesday, May 17, 2006

Critics pan Da Vinci Code, but controversy still swirls

Hard to say whether the negative reviews of critics at the Cannes film festival will have any impact on The Da Vinci Code's box office.

The movie is bound to do well simply because of the success of the book. However, will the critics keep some people from seeing the film?

Strangely the movie is creating the most controversy in Asia where countries like India, Thailand, South Korea and the Philippines have talked of banning the film.

Audrey Tautou at the screening of The Da Vinci Code at the Cannes film festival on May 17.
Audrey Tautou at the screening of The Da Vinci Code at the Cannes film festival on May 17. AP photo from Yahoo News.

Despite approval of censors, the film's opening may be delayed in India, and in Thailand they cut the last 10 minutes of the drama, but later reversed the decision after an appeal by Columbia Pictures.

It's likely all the hoopla from protesters will boost visibility of the Da Vinci Code, and thus may in the end increase sales for the Sony Pictures production.

A screening in China actually beat out the Cannes' "premiere" by about an hour, and the film appears to be generating much interest in that country.

Monday, May 15, 2006

Indian Muslims and Christians band together for Da Vinci Code ban

An unusual coalition of Christian and Muslim groups in India called for a ban on the controversial film The Da Vinci Code.

Leaders from both groups said the film, which depicts Jesus as a married man with progeny, insults the common beliefs of both groups.

Indian Christians demand ban of The Da Vinci Code movie on May 9 in Mumbai, India
Indian Christians demand ban of The Da Vinci Code movie on May 9 in Mumbai, India. Reuters photo from Yahoo News.

Muslims also believe in Jesus as a prophet although they disagree with Christians on details of his life and on the question of his divinity.

Both groups called for protests if the film airs, and Syed Noori, president of the Mumbai-based Raza Academy even threatened a violent response.

The Da Vinci Code movie, if it follows the path of the novel, also portrays the conservative Opus Dei organization as a murderous group bent on hiding the truth of the life of Jesus.


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Sunday, May 14, 2006

Fireknife dancers vie for world title

Contests for the World Fireknife Competition are set to begin Thursday, May 18 and the Polynesian Cultural Center in Laie, Hawai`i. The event runs until Saturday.

More than 40 competitors will compete for the title of world's best fireknife dancer won last year by Mikaele Oloa.

Fireknife Dance Competition

The dance form, which originated in Samoa, is now practiced by dancers coming from many different cultures.

A flaming knife is whirled around at high speeds as the dancer performs acrobatic dance moves and gyrations.


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