Dive! (DVD) (Special Edition) (First Press Limited Edition) (Japan Version)

Rainbow Song director Kumazawa Naoto continues his successful streak of youth films with the teen sports flick Dive!. Based on Mori Eto's best-selling novel, Dive! follows the diving dreams of three teenagers, played by Ikematsu Sosuke (Sunadokei, Udon), Mizobata Junpei (Hanazakari no Kimitachi e), and Hayashi Kento, who won Best Newcomer at the 31st Japan Academy Awards for his performance in Battery. The three young stars underwent diving training for three months in order to convincingly portray their characters onscreen. Seto Asako co-stars as the boys' coach.

Teen diver Sakai (Hayashi Kento) first joined the MDC diving club because he was impressed by the diving skills of Fuji (Ikematsu Sosuke) whose parents are both Olympic divers. Both Sakai and Fuji's diving dreams are on the rocks though when the club falls onto hard financial times. New coach Asaki (Seto Asako) tells them there's only one way to save the team from disbanding: they must produce an Olympic athlete. But clashes between the new coach and the team only throw the club into further disarray, especially when Asaki recruits a new diver (Mizobata Junpei) to the club.

News - Color (First Press Limited Edition)(Japan Version)

Johnny's group NEWS started off the year on their NEWS CONCERT TOUR Pacific 2007-2008, and it's been nonstop bustle since with a tight schedule of group and solo achievements. The group released three top-charting singles, making them now second only to Kinki Kids for the record of longest streak of consecutive 1 singles since debut. Fans should be happy to know that NEWS will be ending the year the same way they started it: on tour. What's more, they're going to ring in 2009 at the Tokyo Dome as part of their nationwide 2008-2009 winter tour. New tour means new songs which is where NEWS' third album Color comes in!

Morning Musume - Cover You (Japan Version)

Dir en grey - Uroboros (ALBUM+DVD+LP)(First Press Limited Edition)(Japan Version)

Marching steadily towards the international stage, Dir en grey has attracted a large following in both Asia and the West with their constantly evolving brand of experimental rock. 2008 has been yet another successful year for the band with touring in Japan and North America, topped off with the release of their seventh studio album Uroboros. The title, referring to an ancient symbol representing cycle, reflects the album's themes of guilt and reincarnation. This time, Dir en grey will take a step back from the hard sounds of their last album to experiment with different instruments and explore darker themes. Scheduled to release in U.S., Japan, and Europe in November, Uroboros features 13 tracks including last year's Dozing Green, which debuted at 3 on the Oricon charts, and their most recent single Glass Skin, a musical study in peace and mayhem if there ever was one.

SPEED - Ashita no Sora (SINGLE+DVD)(Japan Version)

Speed returns with a vengeance. After temporary revivals in 2001 and 2003, the four-member girl group formed by Eriko, Hitoe, Hiroko, and Takako is finally back to stay. Their first new single Ashita no Sora was penned and composed by Ijichi Hiromasa who was also responsible for Speed's earlier hits like Body & Soul, Steady, and Precious Time. Ashita no Sora is also featured in the NTV drama series OL Nippon. The side track Something New rounds off Speed's brand new release.

a-nation'08 -avex All Cast Special Live- [20th Anniversary Special Edition] (Japan Version)

Japan's live music attraction a-nation arrived in 2008 bigger, better and louder than ever before, rocking stages with top acts like hitomi, Koda Kumi, Amuro Namie, Girl Next Door, Every Little Thing, AAA, and TRF. The event took place at major venues in Osaka, Tokyo, and other locations during July and August 2008, and can now be replayed at home with a-nation'08 -avex All Cast Special Live. This two DVD set features songs like Koda Kumi's moon crying, AAA's Halleluyah, and TVXQ's Summer Dream, and also celebrates the twentieth anniversary of Japan's super label avex with performances from Hamasaki Ayumi and surprise guest Do As Infinity, who reunited in early 2008.

Death Bell (AKA: Gosa) (DVD) (First Press Edition) (Korea Version)

For every wrong answer, one student dies.

As the countdown for college entrance exams begin, Chang Ahn High School organizes a special exam cram class for the top 20 students including girl-next-door Lee Na (Nam Gyu Ri) and classroom big shot Hyun Kang (Kim Bum). Taught by Hwang Chang Wook (Lee Bum Soo) and three other teachers, the class is festering with high-strung overachieving teens, some of whom are struggling with serious mental illnesses. In the middle of class, the television suddenly turns on. The students are shocked to see their classmate Hye Young drowning in a water tank onscreen. A voice asks them a sample exam question. Answer correctly, and the classmate lives. Answer incorrectly and...

The Grand Chef Vol. 1 of 2 (DVD) (English Subtitled) (SBS TV Drama) (US Version)

Based on the same Hur Young Man comic that inspired silver-screen blockbuster Le Grand Chef, 2008 SBS drama The Grand Chef (a.k.a. Gourmet) garnered rave reviews and top ratings with its delicious story and cast. Korean Wave heartthrob Kim Rae Won (Rooftop Room Cat, What Planet Are You From?) shows off his culinary skills as a grand chef, along with the talented lineup of Nam Sang Mi (Time Between Dog and Wolf, Sweet Spy), Kwon Oh Joong (Damo), and Kim So Yeon (All About Eve) and the mighty pen of renowned screenwriter Choi Wan Kyu (Jumong, All In). But the true star of the show just might be the dazzling array of food that appears in the drama! Bringing the art of Korean cuisine to television screens in delectable detail, The Grand Chef makes mouths water with colorful scenes of cooking competitions and elaborate gourmet dishes, providing viewers with useful cooking tips and delicious recipes along the way.

SS501 Photobook - Photo 501 (Poster in Tube)

The band members of SS501 invite fans to take a peek at their private lives with their latest project, the photobook+DVD combo Photo 501. It comes with a photo book containing 500 photos, with 100 photos for each member taken over a six-month period complete with memo-style comments. The accompanying DVD documents the making of the photo book, and comes with other features including "Dream Concert" rehearsal, "SS501 Go To Japan", and footage from the photo session for the "Song Calling Your Name" music video.

Kim Dong Wan Single Album - Promise

With a career spanning ten years, Kim Dong Wan has won the hearts of music lovers as part of the boy band Shinhwa and as a solo act. His new single release Promise arrives shortly before his obligatory military service. The highly anticipated title song Promise (Track 2) is a moving duet ballad with talented female singer Younha that talks about the feelings of a couple before bidding each other farewell. The melancholic number "Don't Forget" (Track 3) features Kim's harmonic vocals accompanied by the sound of piano in the background. As a way to say thank you to his numerous fans, Kim has also added a farewell narration on Promise.

Lee Soo Young Mini Album - Once

Ballad diva Lee Soo Young is back with the mini single Once. Raising her passionate voice anew, Lee performs four songs including "First Love - That Kid" (Track 2), a Korean cover of the Japanese hit Rockdom Kazeni Fukarete by progressive rock trio The Alfee. Lee Soo Young fans should also listen up for "For You (Song For Moving Heart)" (Track 4), a melodious number inspired by a poem from Korean poet Kim Nam Jo.

Baby and I (DVD) (First Press Edition) (Korea Version)

Working nonstop on both the small and big screens, Korean heartthrob Jang Geun Suk (The Happy Life, Hong Gil Dong) stars as a problem teenager who becomes the unlikely surrogate father for an abandoned baby in the hit comedy Baby and I. Jang Geun Suk may be Korean Cinema's hottest young actor at the moment, but his infant co-star, Mason Moon, gives him more than a run for his money in the star power department. With an arsenal of adorable expressions and gurgling sounds, little Moon is one irresistibly cute baby who can bring smiles to the steeliest of hearts, and his charming antics alone already make Baby and I an entertaining watch. Add in hilarious voiceover from popular funnyman Park Myung Soo, who narrates the baby's thoughts, and Baby and I shapes up to be a small film with a mighty heart and side-tickling comedy to spare. Based on a Japanese comic book, Baby and I is the first film from Kim Jin Young, who previously produced My Son and Mapado 2.

 

Shade Of Truth (DVD) (End) (English Subtitled) (TVB Drama)

Infernal Affairs meets Water Margin in the hit 2004 TVB drama Shade of Truth. Like Infernal Affairs, Shade of Truth ventures into the gray world of the undercover cop, and the dangerous battle for truth and justice. In an innovative twist, the 25-episode series transports characters from the classic Chinese novel Water Margin into the modern drama, reimagining Song Dynasty heroic outlaws Wu Song and Lin Chong as present-day police officers played by Julian Cheung and Wong Hei. Fates collide in the ancient past and the murky present as the case heats up and both men fall for the reincarnation of beautiful temptress Pan Jinlian, played by Gigi Lai. Shade of Truth also co-stars Tavia Yeung, Yuen Wah, Halina Tam, Gordon Liu, and Hawick Lau.

Lost Souls (DVD) (Hong Kong Version)

Previously released only on VCD, Lost Souls has become sort of a Holy Grail for lovers of exploitation cinema, as the VCD was banned following its initial release. Now, the full and extreme glory of Lost Souls can finally be unleashed upon its followers with this long-awaited DVD release. Directed by Mou Tun Fei, the infamous director also responsible for the cult classic Men Behind the Sun, this 1980 Hong Kong production from the Shaw Studio tells the story of a bunch of illegal immigrants from Mainland China looking for freedom and wealth in Hong Kong. What they find instead is rape, beating and all kinds of physical and mental abuse inflicted upon them by the vicious "snake heads" (human smugglers). Much of the controversy surrounds the director's intentions - did he set out to make this a straight social-political commentary, or no-holds-barred sex-and-violence entertainment? You be the judge.

Mayday - Poetry of The Day After...

After spending an entire year on their Mayday Jump! The World tour, Mayday went right back to the studio to work on their seventh album. Half a year in the making, Mayday's new album Poetry of The Day After... writes another brilliant page in the band's history of spot-on, feel-good, populist rock. The album's title number was created in a crossover with Taiwan novelist Giddens Ko, who turned the five band members' stories into the song's lyrics. For the album photowork, the band enlisted the services of renowned Japanese photographer Kimura Naoki. Like with their previous Born to Love, Mayday will include tickets to their large-scale album launch concert in first press limited edition versions of the album.

2008 Love Songs Collection (2CD)

If you want a crash course on the latest trends in Hong Kong pop music, look no further than this who's-who and what's-hot compilation. The best-selling Love Songs Collection series presents a jam-packed 2008 edition with 30 popular picks from a stellar lineup of over two dozen artists. Jointly released by five major Hong Kong labels - Universal, Go East, Neway Star, East Asia, and Gold Typhoon - the double-CD set collects the Canto-pop highlights of 2008, including chart-topping hits like Leo Ku's "See You Next Tme" (CD 2 - Track 1), Eason Chan's "Praise in Song" (CD 2 - Track 2), Hacken Lee's "Where Will the Flowers Go" (CD 1 - Track 3), Kay Tse's "The Street of Wedding Invitation" (CD 1 - Track 1), Kary Ng's "Cruel Split-up" (CD 1 - Track 9), and Kelly Chen's "Apology to Audrey Hepburn" (CD 2 - Track 7).

Janice - Serving You

Hailed a pop queen candidate soon after her introduction to the Canto-pop scene in 2005, Janice has gone through a rough patch in her singing career in the past year and is just about to return with her first collection of songs after a two-year absence.

Titled Serving You, Janice's long-in-gestation fourth album has several hit songs in its lineup before it is even released. Singles like "Whatever" (Track 14), "Acrobatics" (Track 4), "Like Water" (Track 6), and "Overcast Vacation" (Track 3) have been favorably received on the airwaves. Her new plug "Even If the World Has No Fairy Tales" heads the 14-track album and is set to top the charts.

Andy Lau Wonderful World Concert Tour Shanghai Karaoke (3DVD)

Hong Kong all-round talent Andy Lau launched a mammoth tour from September to December last year, thrilling audiences all over Mainland China and Hong Kong with his Andy Lau Wonderful World Concert Tour 2007. On Andy Lau Wonderful World Concert Tour Shanghai, he offers a 32-track music repertoire of mainly Mandarin songs over three DVDs. Among these are "Chinese" (DVD 1 - Track 2), "Ice Rain" (DVD 1 - Track 9), "Thanks for Your Love" (DVD 1 - Track 5), "Superman" (DVD 2 - Track 3), and "Shepherd's Flute" (DVD 2 - Track 8).

Chinese Paladin (DVD) (End) (English Subtitled) (US Version)

Adapted from a popular game, hit period drama Chinese Paladin (a.k.a The Magic Sword & The Chivalrous Youngsters) is a crowd-pleasing fusion of fantasy, action, adventure, and romance. Mainland stars Crystal Liu Yifei (Return of the Condor Heroes) and Hu Ge, who vaulted to fame with this drama, lead an all-star cast of young idols and established actors from China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan. Taiwan idol drama regulars Eddie Peng (Honey & Clover), Ady An (The Outsiders), and Esther Liu of Sweety (Westside Story) give memorable supporting performances, along with an amazing extended cast that includes Cheng Pei Pei, Patrick Tam, Tse Kwan Ho, Rachel Lee, Ben Wong, Cheung Sai, Joanne Zeng of Sweety, Achel Chang, and Elvis Tsui as the deliciously evil villain. The drama is produced by Lee Kwok Lap, the man behind trendy period series like The Legendary Siblings, Lotus Lantern, and Hu Ge's subsequent hits The Little Fairy, The Young Warriors, and The Eagle Shooting Heroes. Complementing the special effects spectacle and wirework action with an engaging story of rollicking adventure and heartwrenching romance, Chinese Paladin is one of the best Chinese fusion period dramas the genre has to offer.

 

It takes guts and sheer determination to alter your life trajectory, especially when you're at the top of the game. But that's exactly what Rain did. In November of 2007, Rain left his longtime nest JYP Entertainment and started his own company, J. Tune Entertainment. And now, after establishing worldwide fame through his much publicized 2007 world tour and Hollywood exposure in films like Speed Racer and the upcoming action flick Ninja Assassin, the multi-entertainer returns to home base to release his long-awaited fifth album poignantly titled Rainism. By adding "-ism" to his name, the title promotes a new ideology and concept that capture the essence of who he is and what he represents.

Taking full control of the album's entire production, Rain reveals his true colors through his own composition and choice of lyrics, in particular Love Story and September 12th. Composed and arranged by Choi Hyung Joon of V.O.S, Love Story is a pop R&B number that talks about the ugly side of love, surprisingly coming from the singer's own experience. In the song's music video which features actress Ha Ji Won, Rain extends his talent net by orchestrating the full storyline. Moreover, the star upgrades his dance moves by collaborating with world-famous choreographer AJ who previously worked with stars like Usher and Justin Timberlake.

Attracting over a million moviegoers in its opening week, cat-and-mouse crime thriller Eye for an Eye boasts a dream pairing both in front of and behind the camera. Renowned director Kwak Kyung Taek (Friend, Typhoon) and Ahn Kwon Tae - Kwak's assistant director on Friend who went on to direct My Brother - share writing and directing credits, while top stars Cha Seung Won (Murder Take One) and Han Suk Kyu (Shiri) face off onscreen in a thrilling battle of brawn and wit. Weaving from the underbelly of Busan to the corporate district of Seoul, Eye for an Eye takes it characters and the audience on a roller coaster ride of gripping car chases, daring heists, and unexpected plot twists, all underlined by the acting tour de force of Cha Seung Won and Han Suk Kyu.

Fierce, suave, and foulmouthed, top detective Baek (Han Suk Kyu) is about to leave the force to start his own business, but his plans are rudely interrupted when two large cases land on his desk. First, an armored truck is robbed in broad daylight. Then someone impersonates Baek and steals trafficked gold from the airport right under the police's noses. As a final slight, the perpetrator, Ahn (Cha Seung Won), sends a package of cash to Baek the next day. Completely outraged, Baek pursues his target with the determination of a madman, but Ahn is one step ahead at every turn, deliberately leaving traces behind to taunt the police. Baek soon realizes that Ahn's clues are leading him to an even greater enemy.

Held from August 8 to 24, the 2008 Beijing Olympics gathered the world's best athletes in China's capital city for two weeks of intense sporting competition. The Beijing Olympics were the most-watched Olympic Games in history, and provided a stage for many amazing wins and record-breaking feats. Revisit the moments and memories of the Beijing Olympics with this Highlights of the Beijing 2008 Olympics Games DVD release.

  My Sassy Girl director Kwak Jae Yong heads to Japan for his latest romance with a quirky twist Cyborg She (a.k.a. Boku no Kanojo wa Cyborg). A charming fusion of romance, comedy, sci-fi, melodrama, and whatever else the kitchen sink has to offer, Cyborg She follows the burgeoning romance between an ordinary college student and his sassy love interest - who happens to be a time-traveling cyborg with superhuman powers. The film stars two of the most popular young talents in Japanese entertainment, heartthrob Koide Keisuke (Koizora, Kisaragi) and television starlet Ayase Haruka (Ichi, Hotaru no Hikaru), as the hapless boyfriend and magical girlfriend on an unpredictable journey through love and time.    

Taiwan's prince of Mando-pop Jay Chou merges music with the art of sorcery on his latest album, Capricorn, named after his own Zodiac sign. As Jay is especially adept in card tricks, his ninth full-length album features a retro poker card design. Jay appears in a playful double jack of spades image to match his two new songs "Magic" and "Clown". Jay's new principal song Dao Xiang ("Rice Fragrance") returns to the basic elements of music. Penned and composed by Jay, the song revolves around childhood experiences in a small village, and uses simple rhythm and natural sounds, including that of cicadas, accompanied by folk guitar and hip-hop beats.

Recently honored Jeanist of the Year for the third year in a row, Koda Kumi strikes once more with her 41st single. Taboo is a sizzling hot R&B number sure to get everybody on the dance floor. The side track Always, the remix version of Taboo, and instrumentals of the two songs can also be found on Kumi's latest release.

Aaron Kwok is the sole dancing king of Hong Kong. This four-DVD set presents the highlights of his latest shows at the Hong Kong Coliseum and the AsiaWorld-Expo held between November 2007 and February 2008. Fans can sing along to songs like "Expiry Date" (DVD 1 - Track 13), "Love Attitude 1998" (DVD 2 - Track 3), and "Unforgettable" (DVD 2 - Track 18), "Wild City" (DVD 2 - Track 13), and "Dear" (DVD 1 - Track 11). Those interested in the show alone can turn to the remaining two DVDs.

Epik High cranks up the love machine in their newly released mini album Lovescream! The popular Korean hip-hop group, whose previous fifth release Pieces, Part One won both critical and commercial success, shows off their soft, romantic side by packing in a series of love tunes in their latest album. Making a complete changeover from the group's previous album which featured a number of songs tackling heavy subjects like suicide, social estrangement, and political corruption, Lovescream coats ordinary love stories with warm, organic analogue sounds of classical instruments.

Kinki Kids' Domoto Koichi has been putting on his popular Shock stage musicals every year since 2000, and 2008 was no exception to the rule. Endless Shock 2008 was staged at the Imperial Garden Theater in Tokyo from January 6 to February 26, and this DVD release records the February 6 performance. Domoto Koichi has performed over 500 shows of his long-running musical series, and he continues to Shock audiences anew every year as the musicals evolve and improve. This time Domoto Koichi is supported by Kanjani8's Ohkura Tadayoshi and many Johnny's Juniors, including Musical Academy and M.A.D, for a dazzling showcase of song, dance, and stunts.

For three consecutive days from February 22 to 24, 2008, thousands of fans filled up the Olympic Fencing Gymnasium in the Seoul Olympic Park to take part in Super Junior's Super Show, their first ever solo concert since making their debut three years ago. The concert also marks the grand opening of Super Junior's ambitious Asia concert tour, which is to be held in various cities throughout Asia. The show opened up before a full house of 6,500 exuberant fans, with the band performing their very first single Twins followed by the phenomenal 2007 smash Don't Don. Making full usage of the venue's space, Super Junior magically popped out of every corner of the arena, driving their fans into frenzy. Emotions ran high as fans and their idols joined voices in unison singing Marry U and many other favorite hits. For those who want to relive the experience or for those who missed out on all the excitement, Super Junior 1st Concert DVD - Super Show offers the full live performance of Super Show for your personal pleasure.

Period swordplay drama Big Shot, adapted from a renowned Gu Long novel, teams up singer/actor Nicholas Tse, acclaimed actress Angelica Lee (Re-cycle), and Mainland rising star Yan Kuan. In her first costume role, Angelica Lee shows a beauty and charm different from that of her many acclaimed contemporary movies. Nicholas Tse, who demonstrated his potential in the swordplay drama Proud of Twins, again portrays a charismatic swordsman. Handsome Yan Kuan plays an up-and-coming hero, no less impressive than the rest of the main cast, in this dynamic drama.

Finally, the wait is over! Korea's sensational boy band Dong Bang Shin Ki releases their fourth full-length Korean album Mirotic, much to the excitement of fans who have been waiting patiently for almost two years. The album's title Mirotic comes from the Korean word "miro" (which means "maze") and the English suffix "-tic"; together, the title is intended to mean being warped into the depths of a labyrinth. Returning to K-pop after two years of working primarily in Japan, the boys reel out their masculine appeal with powerful beats and memorable tunes. Speaking of sending love energy to an attractive girl, the album's title song Mirotic (Track 1) is a reverse-beat dance number for which TVXQ collaborated with renowned Scandinavian songwriters Remee and Thomas Troelsen (the producing team behind BoA's American debut song Eat You Up) and famous dance choreographer Kenny Wormald, who previously worked with big names like Justin Timberlake, Chris Brown, and Christina Aguilera.

Legendary director John Woo (A Better Tomorrow, The Killer) returns to Asia after fifteen years in Hollywood with Red Cliff, his adaptation of the Chinese classic, The Romance of the Three Kingdoms. Woo's epic is much more faithful and grand than the recent Three Kingdoms: Resurrection of the Dragon, but the director still puts his own personal stamp on the material, concentrating on his human heroes, their personal relationships, and above all the brotherhood they forge in the heat of battle. The first of two films chronicling the legendary battle, Red Cliff is without doubt the Chinese film event of the year.

Re-teaming with Woo for the first time since 1992's Hard Boiled is Tony Leung Chiu Wai, fresh from his Golden Horse Award-winning turn in Lust, Caution. Leung plays the role of strategist Zhou Yu, and stepped in to help old friend John Woo when original lead Chow Yun Fat vacated the leading role. Rounding out the all-star cast are Kaneshiro Takeshi (The Warlords), Chang Chen (The Go Master), Zhang Feng Yi (The Emperor and the Assassin), Vicki Zhao (Shaolin Soccer), Hu Jun (Infernal Affairs 2), Japanese actor Nakamura Shidou (Fearless), and in her debut performance, Taiwanese model Lin Chi Ling.

A children's beloved fairy tale takes a bizarre and frightening twist in Hansel and Gretel, a blood-spatting fantasy horror from award-winning director Im Pil Seong (Antarctic Journal). In the classic Grimm Brothers' folk tale of the same name, the two young protagonists happily find their way back home after pushing the evil witch into the burning furnace. But beneath its happy telling lies the disturbing truth that traces roots back to one of history's darkest times when poverty forced many parents to abandon their kids. Drawing from such historical tragedy, the film stretches the audience's imagination by asking, "what would have happened if Hansel and Gretel were forever trapped in the dark woods?" Breaking all the rules typical of a fairy tale fantasy, director Im deftly weaves the elements of horror into a psychological tale surrounding the misfortunes of abandoned kids who often end up spending the rest of their lives searching for the love that they never had. The film has recently garnered international acclaim and competed at several international film festivals such as the 41st Sitges International Fantasy Film Festival and the 27th Vancouver International Film Festival.

  There are three kinds of swindlers in the world. White Swindlers (Shirosagi) prey on the innocent to steal their money. Red Swindlers (Akasagi) manipulate people's emotions to cheat their money. And then there is the Black Swindler (Kurosagi), the most powerful of them all, because he only cons other swindlers.

NEWS member Yamashita Tomohisa makes his silver screen leading man debut in the theatrical spin-off of his hit TV drama Kurosagi. Based on the manga by Natsuhara Takeshi, TBS crime suspense drama Kurosagi was aired to high ratings and audience buzz in 2006, once again confirming Yamashita's superstar status among the younger generation. Released in March 2008, the big screen adaptation sees Yamashita reprising his role as Kurosaki, a Robin Hood-like conman with a tragic past who is on a mission to rid the world of swindlers. This time he encounters his strongest rival yet, Ishigaki (Takenaka Naoto), whose elaborate corporation fraud scheme puts Japan on the brink of financial crisis.       Tune in to the latest sound on FM S.H.E. Mando-pop fans all over the globe have been waiting in anticipation for new songs from Taiwan's beloved trio S.H.E. The girls invite music lovers to their latest twelve tracks including the space-sound dance tune "Miss Universe" which promises to stir up a new trend. The album also comes with highlights from S.H.E.'s online radio program. Without a doubt Taiwan's foremost female group, the threesome is ready to conquer the hearts of their fans once more this fall.     With the vast desert terrain and the famous Grand Canyon of North America set as its backdrop, Dong Bang Shin Ki's newly released photobook A Week Holiday - It's Stylish includes 108 pages worth of incredible photos taken during their trip to Grand Canyon for their latest photo shoot. The photobook measures 37.3 cm x 26.8 cm in size.     The ever-changing J-pop scene sees new acts appearing and leaving all the time. In this competitive market, Hamasaki Ayumi continues to rule as J-pop's record-setting diva, loved by her fans and respected by the general audience for her unfailing formula for success. Gradually finding her way to the top of the charts after debuting 1998, Hamasaki has maintained her superiority on the charts for a decade. Celebrating her tenth anniversary since her debut single poker face, Ayumi invites fans to a retrospective of her biggest hits.

A Complete -All Singles- comes loaded with hit after hit, starting with poker face all the way to her most recent No, 1 hit Mirrorcle World, on three CDs. The anniversary version of Ayu's tenth anniversary song Who rounds off this premium collection.     Returning from his highly acclaimed drama series Time Between Dog And Wolf, Korean heartthrob Lee Jun Ki stars in Iljimae, a fusion historical drama set during the Joseon dynasty that chronicles the life of a chivalrous robber known as "Iljimae". Unlike other outlaw heroes such as Robin Hood and Hong Gil Dong who were accompanied by a band of followers, Iljimae likes to play solo. Featuring a star-studded cast that includes Han Hyo Joo (Spring Waltz), Lee Young Ah (Golden Bride), and Park Si Who (What Planet Are You From?), this charming swashbuckler far exceeded the viewership ratings of Son Ye Jin's Spotlight and Kim Ji Soo's Woman of the Sun which competed in the same timeslot. Based loosely on the best-selling comic book by Ko Woo Young, the drama strikes a cool balance between comedy, action, and drama, working in plenty of offbeat humor (much of which comes from modern-day spoofs) and offering some genuine food for thoughts about love, family, and marriage.     Based on the popular PS2 game series, OneChanbara brings the adventures of sexy slayer Aya to the big screen in all its katakana-wielding, zombie-slicing glory. Written and directed by Fukada Yohei, OneChanbara stars three pin-up idols in the leading action heroine roles. Up-and-coming siren Otoguro Eri (Shutter, Shaolin Girl) cuts fine form as the feisty heroine Aya, slashing her way through the movie in the character's signature cowgirl attire - cowboy hat, cowboy boots, long scarf, and a bikini. To defend her city, she has to take on a quickly multiplying army of zombies that was raised from the dead by a mysterious scientist. Aya is joined in the fight by biker chick Reiko (Hashimoto Manami) who is out to avenge her father's death and Aya's half-sister Saki (Nakamura Chise, Swing Girls) who suddenly shows up in a schoolgirl uniform with a saber of her own.     Leo Ku returns to the music arena with his latest EP. Guitar Fever combines his vocals with passionate guitar instrumentals, high-definition digital recording, and detailed postproduction. The Lin Jianhua composition Eyes with Tears, See You Next Time featuring classical guitarist Yang Xuefei, and Flowers Don't Hurt, a collaboration work by Tanya Chua and Lin Xi, are among the album's highlights. Ku also invited Joey Tang, Barry Chung, and Mark Lui to complete his Guitar Fever release.     While the countdown is underway for Lee Min Woo's obligatory military duty scheduled for May 2009, Shinhwa pop extraordinaire M dishes out his fourth album only a year and three months after the release of his phenomenal third album Explore M. Borrowing the name from his own record label M Rising Entertainment, his latest album M Rizing features an abundance of catchy mainstream-friendly tracks. While Lee's three previous albums provided a solid base to hone his musical skills and build his name as a solo artist, the new album demonstrates the star's openness to collaborating with other talents in the industry, namely singer-turned-composer Lee Hyun Do (of Deux), renowned producer Brave Brothers, popular composer Jang Jun Ho, and ex-JYP Entertainment producer Kwon Tae Eun who previously wrote hits for both Rain and Wonder Girls. Moreover, the album features a delightful lineup of guests artists like Son Dam Bi, Mighty Mouse, and Yoo Bin of Wonder Girls. In conjunction with the album's September '08 release, M is launching his ambitious M Rizing concert tour which will be held throughout Asia over the next eight months.

Kung Fu Hip-Hop (DVD) (Hong Kong Version)

As light and entertaining as the title promises, Kung Fu Hip Hop brings together an unlikely cast for a feel-good hip-hop dancefest that tickles the funnybone and rolls out the dance montages. Jordan Chan, who started his career as a backdancer, returns to his roots in a mighty dance-off against Korean artist Nam Hyun Joon, better known as Poppin Hyun Joon, who shows off his famed popping moves. Directed by Fu Huayang, Kung Fu Hip Hop also co-stars top Chinese actress Fan Bingbing (A Battle of Wits) as a DJ and Shaw Brothers star Chen Kuan Tai as a garage owner who knows kung fu and speaks pearls of wisdom. Appearances from dance group Kung Fu Pop, teen duo By2, and even a couple of Olympics athletes add to the guilty pleasure.

Your Love (CD+DVD) (Version 2)

Raymond Lam continues his music career with Your Love. The actor and singer is at a new career high. He's currently appearing in the TVB drama Moonlight Resonance, for which he also performs the end theme. "Love Has No Guilty Conscience" (Track 1) is the principal song on Raymond's second full-length album. Other promising songs on Your Love include "Summer Snow" (Track 9), "Shadow's Love Story" (Track 6), and his duet "After Tomorrow" with Vincy Chan in Cantonese (Track 4) and Mandarin (Track 10).

Destiny Love (DVD) (End) (Preorder Edition) (Taiwan Version)

A one night stand leads to an unlikely marriage in the new SETTV idol drama Destiny Love (a.k.a. You're My Destiny and Fated to Love You). With the drama's ratings breaking records left and right, sassy starlet Joe Chen (The Prince Who Turned Into a Frog) has yet another hit in her hands. This time she trades barbs and kisses with leading man Ethan Ruan who shows his comic talents again after his hilarious performance in Summer x Summer. Co-starring newcomer Baron Chen (Kung Fu Dunk) and model-turned-actress Bianca Bai (Angel Love), Destiny Love is directed by Chen Ming Zhang, the man behind The Prince Who Turned Into a Frog, The Magicians of Love, and My Best Pals.

Aaron Kwok De Show Reel Live In Concert 07/08 (3CD)

Hong Kong's dancing king Aaron Kwok proved his expertise as a live entertainer once more when he took to the stages of the Hong Kong Coliseum and the AsiaWorld-Expo in November 2007 and February 2008. The highlights of his show have been captured on this triple Aaron Kwok De Show Reel Live In Concert 07/08 CD release. The live album includes songs like "Perfect Beauty" (CD 1 - Track 12), "Wild City" (CD 3 - Track 4), "Can't Stop Loving You" (CD 3 - Track 11), "Cry of Love" (CD 2 - Track 15), and "Dear" (CD 1 - Track 10). Aaron's piano performance of "Three Way Division" (CD 3 - Track 2) and his smash uptempo number "Sing That Song" (CD 3 - Track 7) should also keep his fans cheering.

Wonder Miriam (CD+ MOOV Live 2008 Miriam DVD)

Miriam returns as Wonder Miriam. The popular Hong Kong singer/actress is back with her follow-up to last year's Meridian. It features twelve tracks including hits like "See You Tomorrow" (Track 2), "Working As Heroine Falling For The Almighty Hero" (Track 1), and "Grand Charity Person" (Track 7), as well as the sole Mandarin number "Loved Before" (Track 8).

The Highlights Of The Beijing 2008 Olympic Games (DVD) (China Version)

Held from August 8 to 24, the 2008 Beijing Olympics gathered the world's best athletes in China's capital city for two weeks of intense sporting competition. The Beijing Olympics were the most-watched Olympic Games in history, and provided a stage for many amazing wins and record-breaking feats. Revisit the moments and memories of the Beijing Olympics with this Highlights of the Beijing 2008 Olympics Games DVD release.

Chinese Paladin (DVD) (End) (English Subtitled) (US Version)

Adapted from a popular game, hit period drama Chinese Paladin (a.k.a The Magic Sword & The Chivalrous Youngsters) is a crowd-pleasing fusion of fantasy, action, adventure, and romance. Mainland stars Crystal Liu Yifei (Return of the Condor Heroes) and Hu Ge, who vaulted to fame with this drama, lead an all-star cast of young idols and established actors from China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan. Taiwan idol drama regulars Eddie Peng (Honey & Clover), Ady An (The Outsiders), and Esther Liu of Sweety (Westside Story) give memorable supporting performances, along with an amazing extended cast that includes Cheng Pei Pei, Patrick Tam, Tse Kwan Ho, Rachel Lee, Ben Wong, Cheung Sai, Joanne Zeng of Sweety, Achel Chang, and Elvis Tsui as the deliciously evil villain. The drama is produced by Lee Kwok Lap, the man behind trendy period series like The Legendary Siblings, Lotus Lantern, and Hu Ge's subsequent hits The Little Fairy, The Young Warriors, and The Eagle Shooting Heroes. Complementing the special effects spectacle and wirework action with an engaging story of rollicking adventure and heartwrenching romance, Chinese Paladin is one of the best Chinese fusion period dramas the genre has to offer.

Dir en grey - Glass Skin (First Press Limited Edition)(Japan Version)

Slowly but steadily, Japanese rock band Dir en grey is marking their presence on the charts. Last year they not only pleased their fans with a huge selection of some of their best hits on two separate compilations but also climbed to Oricon's no. 7 spot through their sixth full-length album Marrow Of A Bone. Finally they underlined this success by landing their biggest single hit so far with Dozing Green. Now they are back with their first 2008 single, melancholic number Glass Skin written by band vocalist Kyo. On this appetizer single preceding their forthcoming album Uroboros, Dir en Grey also offers their fans an updated version of the song undecided plus Agitated Screams of Maggots -Unplugged-.

Johnen Sada No Ai (DVD) (Japan Version)

In 1936, a former prostitute named Abe Sada murdered her lover after a night of intense sex, and castrated him so she could keep his genitalia as keepsake. Her reason: she killed him because she loved him. The incident both shocked and fascinated people across Japan, and has since inspired quite a few films including Oshima Nagisa's In the Realm of the Senses and, most recently, Mochizuka Rokuro's Johnen Sada no Ai (a.k.a. Johnen - Sada's Love). Japanese singer and actress Sugimoto Aya, who starred in Ishii Takashi's 2004 Flower and Snake remake and made headlines in 2003 for her very public divorce to escape a sexless marriage, is a femme fatale for the ages in the sexually charged Johnen Sada no Ai.

10 Promises to My Dog (DVD) (Premium Edition) (Japan Version)

Based on a Kawaguchi Hare novel, 10 Promises to My Dog (a.k.a. Inu to Watashi no 10 no Yakusoku) follows a girl and her dog over a decade's time. Tanaka Rena (Giniro no Season) and her younger counterpart Fukada Mayuko (L change the WorLd) portray the same character at different ages, showing how a young woman's relationship with her family, her dog, and herself evolves as she grows up and experiences the bittersweet turns of life. Directed by Motoki Katsuhide (Gegege no Kitaro), this pet film inspires both smiles and tears with its cute canine lead and its touching story of family and friendship. 10 Promises to My Dog also co-stars Kase Ryo (I Just Didn't Do It), Ikewaki Chizuru (Across a Gold Prairie), and Toyokawa Etsushi (Sinking of Japan).

Koda Kumi Live Tour 2008 -Kingdom- (Japan Version)

Koda Kumi comes to town with Live Tour 2008 -Kingdom. Arranged similar to her previous Black Cherry Tour, Kumi's mammoth performance at Tokyo's National Yoyogi Stadium is divided into three acts to tell a story. Weaving together elements like wirework and a play, Kumi's latest show offers top-notch entertainment. Interesting behind-the-scenes and making of video footage including the segment "Searching for Kuchan" on the second DVD (approximately 60 minutes) round off this live release.

B'z The Best "ULTRA Treasure" (2CD+DVD)(Japan Version)

Japanese rock duo B'z continues to attract listeners in and outside their home country. Their first 20th anniversary compilation B'z The Best "ULTRA Pleasure shot to the top of the Oricon charts as expected after its release in June. Now they return with the follow-up compilation B'z The Best "ULTRA Treasure. Featured on this release are the new song Glory Days (CD 2 - Track 15), the "Ultra Treasure" style version of Blowin', and the 2008 Mix of F E A R, among other favorites. Also featuring other highlights including the ballad Haru (CD 1 - Track 11) and the rock number Pierrot (CD 2 - Track 12), B'z The Best "ULTRA Treasure presents a valuable addition for old and new fans alike.

Super Junior 1st Premium Event in Japan (Japan Version)

Pop favorites in Korea, Super Junior has turned into a super franchise extending into the music scenes of other countries including China and Japan. In the land of the rising sun, they are starting to make their presence felt on the Oricon charts and their live performance Super Junior 1st Premium Event in Japan sold out instantly. Now available on DVD, this release records Super Junior's performance of songs like U, Twins, Miracle, and Rokkuko. Super Junior 1st Premium Event in Japan also comes with behind-the-scenes footage that reveals a more personal side of the boys.

Pepper Keibu (Jacket A)(SINGLE+DVD)(First Press Limited Edition)(Japan Version)

Morning Musume keep things rolling. Last year the flagship group from the popular Hello! Project franchise celebrated their tenth anniversary. For the nine-member group currently led by Takahashi Ai and Niigaki Risa, 2007 became another successful year with the album Sexy Beat, several top ten singles, and a best-selling compilation. After their first 2008 single Resonant Blue turned into a No. 3 hit in April, it is now time for the girls' thirty-seventh single Pepper Keibu. Morning Musume's latest single also features the side track Romance.

 

Independent Film Collection (DVD) (Limited Edition) (Korea Version)

Three critically acclaimed independent films by some of the most promising directors in Korea are bundled together in this hefty boxset Independent Film Collection, along with some interesting special features such as audio commentary, making of, poster shooting, and theatrical trailer.

Beastie Boys (AKA: The Moonlight in Seoul) (DVD) (First Press Limited Edition) (Korea Version)

The Chaser's antihero Ha Jung Woo stars in Beastie Boys (a.k.a. The Moonlight in Seoul), director Yoon Jong Bin's second film following his critically acclaimed homosexual soldier story The Unforgiven which brought both Yoon and Ha international recognition. Yoon's latest film takes place in a "host bar" in Chungdamdong, an upscale shopping mecca situated in the busy district of Seoul which is also notorious for its wild nightlife. The story centers on the lives of young male escorts who trade in their pride for quick cash and cheap pleasure and other luxury perks. Ha plays a debt-stricken escort who sweet-talks his female clientele to pour money on him. Unlike Ha's sly, unabashing demeanor, singer-turned-actor Yoon Kye Sang (Lovers of Six Years) portrays a disgruntled and disheartened escort who happens to rank 1 in the clienteles' most wanted list. Yoon, who is known for his low alcohol tolerance, reportedly consumed heavy potions of alcohol to enhance the realism for his drunken scenes. His character eventually falls for a client named Ji Won, played by the upcoming actress Yoon Jin Seo (Ditto). The film clenched the top spot at the box-office upon its release with a number of critical acclaims for Yoon's stylish and realistic depiction of our troubled youth.

Be Strong, Geum-soon Vol. 4 of 4 (DVD) (English Subtitled) (MBC TV Drama) (US Version)

The first drama to be broadcast simultaneously in Korea and China, MBC's daily drama Be Strong, Geum-soon garnered an impressive rating of 30% for more than half a year. Circling around the prevalent theme of family love, this humorous, touching drama revolves around a young widow and her struggles in life. Reflecting on the many contemporary faces of motherhood, the drama takes a poignant look at today's mothers, from a young pregnant widow, to a widowed mother who abandons her child, to a working mother caught in a messy battle with her demanding in-laws. Before stepping into the role of empress So Seo No in Jumong, Han Hye Jin starred as the titular heroine in Be Strong, Geum-soon, playing a levelheaded, young woman whose marital bliss is cut short by her husband's sudden death. Pregnant and without any family support of her own, she lives with her in-laws but is met with insurmountable hardships. Sporting a boorish hairstyle that earned her the nickname of "lettuce head", Han pairs up with Kang Ji Hwan (Capital Scandal) who rose to instant stardom portraying a brash, charismatic young doctor who falls in love with Geum Soon. Touching on various sensitive issues surrounding premarital sex, organ donation, forced early retirement, and the never-ending strife between mothers-in-law and daughters-in-law, with loads of lighthearted humor and humanism, Be Strong, Geum-soon beautifully demonstrates how one family overcame their differences through the power of love and forgiveness.

SHINee Vol. 1 - The SHINee World (Version A)

In early 2008, K-pop gave birth to a new singing sensation: SHINee. Only a few months after blazing through the charts with their hit single "Noona Is Very Pretty", the talented idol boy band presents their first full-length album The SHINee World. Striving to become the leading trendsetter in all areas of entertainment including music, dance, and fashion, SHINee offers heaps of top-notch sounds that feature a wide variety of music from R&B to urban to pop, composed by such talents as Yoo Young Jin, Kim Young Woo, and Kenzie. The album's principle track Sanso gaat eun nuh ("Love Like Oxygen" - Track 3) is a cover of young Danish singer Martin Hoberg Hedegaard's recent hit Show the world. Laced in disco and punk hooks reminiscent of Michael Jackson, the song describes the three different phases of love as being water, ice, and oxygen. Other noteworthy tracks include the R&B urban-style number Geu nyeo ga hair jot da ("One For Me" - Track 5) featuring lyrics by singer/lyricist Wheesung; member Jong Hyun's first solo track Hye ya ("Y Si Fuera Ella" - Track 9); and the unplugged remix of In My Room.

YounHa Vol. 2 - Someday

Monday Kiz - Recollection (Limited Edition)

The Fox With Nine Tails (DVD) (Korea Version)

The West has Dracula, a creature that is widely known and feared. In Korea there is a legendary female ghost looking for true love, a fox with nine tails. This 1994 film is a contemporary fantasy about a woman who is half human and half fox. In order for her to become a complete human being, she must find true love with an ordinary man. The first Korean movie to use computer-generated special effects, The Fox with Nine Tails is brilliant and enchanting. In his directorial debut, filmmaker Park Heon Soo (Singles), who also wrote the script, employs then unknown actor Jung Woo Sung (A Moment To Remember) as his leading man who pairs up with the strikingly beautiful Ko So Young (Operation Makeover). The collaboration marks the beginning of a great onscreen chemistry between the two leads which would later lead to another success in the box-office hit Beat.