Mike Garcia

About Mike Garcia

Living through Cinematic memories while surviving the most putrified film swamps

Posts by Mike Garcia:

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Remembering YEN CHENG-KUO: From Child Star to Redeemed Director, a Life Cut Short at 50

The Taiwanese film world is in mourning following the sudden passing of Yen Cheng-Kuo (顏正國), the beloved child actor who captivated audiences as the plucky “A-Kuo” in the 1980s Kung-Fu Kids (好小子) series. Yen died on October 7, 2025, at 4:57 p.m. at Far Eastern Memorial Hospital in New Taipei City’s Banqiao District, succumbing to stage 4 lung adenocarcinoma after being removed from life support. He was just 50 years old, three days shy of his 51st birthday on October 10. Funeral director and social media influencer Juan Chiao-pen (阮橋本), known as “Steel Dad,” announced the news on Facebook, conveying the family’s profound grief while requesting privacy during this difficult time. Yen Cheng-kuo’s passing has sparked an outpouring of tributes from fans, filmmakers, and industry veterans who witnessed his evolution from a wide-eyed child star to a resilient artist. Director Hou Hsiao-hsien (侯孝賢), who mentored Yen in his early years, […]

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JFF Theater: THE SCOOP Review: Blending School Drama with Timely Journalism Lessons

Set in a prestigious high school, The Scoop follows Yui Tokoro, a literature-obsessed teenager determined to uncover the identity of a mysterious writer rumored to be a student at her school. To achieve her goal, Yui joins the school’s unofficial press club, led by its eccentric leader (played by Akari Takaishi, known for her standout role in Baby Assassins). As Yui delves deeper, she uncovers corruption within the school, learning the vital lesson that true journalism is about uncovering the truth. This engaging film tackles timely themes such as press freedom and systemic corruption, seamlessly woven into a compelling school drama. Director Keiichi Kobayashi starts with a deliberate, slow pace that gradually builds momentum as the story’s layers unravel, culminating in a powerful climax where only the truth prevails—not just the truth of the mysteries presented by the plot, but also a sincere and evocative message that resonates with the […]

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PRISONER OF WAR Review: Scott Adkins Breaks Free in a Bone-Crushing WWII Action Epic.

The film stars Scott Adkins and Peter Shinkoda

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In Memoriam: CLAUDIA CARDINALE, A Cinematic Legend (1938–2025)

The world of cinema mourns the loss of Claudia Cardinale, the Tunisian-born Italian actress whose beauty, talent, and indomitable spirit made her one of the most iconic stars of the 20th century. Cardinale passed away on September 23, 2025, at the age of 87 in Nemours, near Paris, France, surrounded by her children. With a career spanning over six decades and more than 130 films, she captivated audiences with her sultry gaze, husky voice, and versatile performances. This article celebrates her extraordinary life, her contributions to cinema, and the legacy of a woman who embodied strength, grace, and authenticity. Born Claude Joséphine Rose Cardinale on April 15, 1938, in La Goulette, Tunisia, to Sicilian-Italian parents, Cardinale grew up in a vibrant, multicultural environment, speaking French, Tunisian Arabic, and Sicilian. She initially dreamed of becoming a teacher, but fate intervened when she won the “Most Beautiful Italian Girl in Tunisia” contest […]

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JFF Theater: HAVE A SONG ON YOUR LIPS Review: A Moving Ode to Healing Through Music

Yuri, a former professional pianist unable to play again due to unresolved trauma, is assigned as a substitute teacher on the remote island of Goto. Reluctantly, she agrees to lead the local school choir to prepare it for a national competition. As she gets to know her students, each carrying their own unique traumas, Yuri discovers that music can be a path to healing, both for them and for herself. Based on Taishi Mori’s novel, inspired by the 2009 NHK documentary Greetings to a 15-Year-Old and Angela Aki’s song for the 2008 NHK National School Music Competition, the film unfolds with a serene yet evocative narrative. Its beautiful cinematography mirrors the characters’ inner struggles and triumphs, capturing the tranquil beauty of Goto Island. As the choir unites, the motto “Have a song on your lips and never give up the fight” becomes a powerful symbol of resilience. This slow-burning, emotional […]

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Remembering Robert Redford: A Hollywood Legend and Visionary

In Memoriam: Robert Redford (1936-2025)

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‘Girl’ (2025): A Poignant Coming-of-Age Tale Marks Shu Qi’s Directorial Debut

Taiwanese cinema welcomes a fresh yet deeply resonant voice with Girl (2025), the feature directorial debut of acclaimed actress Shu Qi. Premiering at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival on September 4, 2025, this coming-of-age drama has already garnered attention for its heartfelt storytelling and evocative portrayal of 1980s Taiwan. Written and directed by Shu Qi, Girl is a promising first step into filmmaking for one of Taiwan’s biggest stars, delivering a narrative that balances personal trauma with the hope of self-discovery. Set in 1988 Taiwan, Girl follows Hsiao-lee, a reserved young girl trapped in a joyless environment shaped by a painful past. Her introverted existence shifts when she meets Li-li (played by Lin Pin-Tung), a lively and carefree girl of the same age whose vibrant spirit begins to crack open Hsiao-lee’s guarded world. As their friendship blossoms, Hsiao-lee grapples with her mother Chuan’s reemerging past, navigating the tension between […]

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Sylvester Stallone Returns in TULSA KING SEASON 3: Premiere Date and Teaser Revealed

Streaming September 21!

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WAR 2 Trailer Unleashes High-Octane Action Ahead of Indian Independence Day

YRF Spy Universe continues its expansion with the sequel to War, bringing back Hrithik Roshan (Kites, Fighter) as Kabir Dhaliwal. Joining him are N. T. Rama Rao Jr. (Temper, RRR), Kiara Advani (Fugly, Lust Stories), Ashutosh Rana (War, Pathaan), and Anil Kapoor (Slumdog Millionaire, Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol). The film is directed by Ayan Mukerji (Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani), from a script by Shridhar Raghavan and Abbas Tyrewala, based on a story by franchise producer Aditya Chopra. Since 2012’s Ek Tha Tiger, Yash Raj Films has built a six-film interconnected franchise known as the YRF Spy Universe, blending espionage, patriotism, and high-octane action. This new chapter, the second installment of War and the sixth in the series, picks up with Kabir, a former Indian agent turned national threat. To stop him, the government calls in Vikram (N. T. Rama Rao Jr.), a veteran spy with a shadowy past and […]

Yaxi Liu Brings High-Impact Action to Rome in THE FORBIDDEN CITY: New Trailer for its upcoming release in German cinemas

Yaxi Liu Brings High-Impact Action to Rome in THE FORBIDDEN CITY: New Trailer for its upcoming release in German cinemas

The Forbidden City launches a new trailer for its upcoming German release under the title of Kung Fu in Rome, promising a thrilling mix of East and West, in an Italian production with Asian flair. Leading the cast is talented Chinese martial artist Yaxi Liu—best known as Liu Yifei’s stunt double in Disney’s Mulan—supported by Italian actors Enrico Borello (Supersex), Marco Giallini (Rocco), and Sabrina Ferilli (The Great Beauty), as well as Chinese actor Chunyu Shanshan (King of Fighters). Directed by Italian filmmaker Gabriele Mainetti (They Call Me Jeeg) the plot follows Mei (Yaxi Liu) , a Chinese woman who travels to Rome in search of her missing sister, encountering in her path a dangerous horde of Chinese gangsters willing to stop her. The film hints a potent mix of action, romance, and glorious violence as Yaxi Liu kicks her way through the Eternal City, delivering high-impact thrills from start […]

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JFF THEATER: ITO Review: Tuning the strings of self-confidence

Ito is a shy high school student with problems of communication who seeks to step out of her comfort zone, to embark on a journey of personal growth while working at a maid cafe. Her skills with the traditional Japanese musical instrument, the shamisen, serves as her tool for self-expression. Ito is a quiet and warming tale about overcoming self-imposed limits and growing up out of the shell to face the real world. Komai Ren shines as the heart of the story, portraying Ito as an enduring and lovable character, as we accompany her on a maturing journey, guided by the rhythm of the shamisen strings—a melody that shapes her growth while strengthening the ties that bind her to her family. The film is available with subtitles in multiple languages on the Japanese Foundation’s streaming platform, JFF Theater: https://en.jff.jpf.go.jp/movie/ito

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HUNT THE WICKED Review: Xie Miao And Andy On Headline A Wicked Niche Action Delight

The movie arrives on digital in the U.S. beginning May 20 from Well Go USA.

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DIABLO launches its first trailer igniting a new chapter between Scott Adkins and Marko Zaror screen rivalry.

On this platform, we’ve been closely following the development of this project since its inception. A project that is now a reality, and that moviegoers finally will be able to enjoy this summer. Directed by Chilean director Ernesto Diaz Espinosa (Kiltro, Fist of the Condor), the film marks the third collaboration between Scott Adkins and Marko Zaror in the roles of protagonist and antagonist. A reunion that sounds like a celebration for fans of the genre after the joys both stars gave us in the past in essential films like Undisputed III and Savage Dog. The trailer gives a sneak peek at the martial arts and ballistic spectacle that Diablo promises, with Adkins as the central axis of the action, promising to quench the thirst of action movie fans. The main attraction is a new duel between Scott Adkins and Marko Zaror. After his release from prison, one man makes […]

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TACFEST III Review: In GUNMAN (GATILLERO), Gripping, Absorbing, Breathless.

Pablo “El Galgo” Correa (Sergio Podeley) is a hitman recently released from prison who finds himself embroiled in a series of misfortunes after accepting a minor job for his boss, unwittingly falling into a web of betrayals that will make him the prey of all the neighborhood’s thugs. This small Argentine production surprises with its excellent staging, taking the viewer through the streets of the oppressed Isla Maciel neighborhood, on the outskirts of Buenos Aires, under a relentless hail of bullets and betrayals that keep the audience on edge throughout the whole film. Cristian Tapian Marchiori creates an intense film through a single continuous shot in which we follow an anti-hero, as reprehensible as the thugs hunting him, around a relentless buildup of tension and emotions that culminates in a violent outcome that leaves the viewer completely breathless. Gunman (Gatillero in its original language) is a very remarkable work, a […]

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TACFEST III Review: Shane Kosugi’s SEEK Brings The Ninja Fever Back In a Notable Directorial Debut

Having inherited a name as Kosugi, always associated to Ninja badassery, thanks to the immortality of celluloid. It was inevitable that the sons of one of the big responsables of the Ninja fever that infected the world during the 80’s, were going to follow his steps and try to keep the ninja legacy still alive. We all know that Ninjas make everything cooler. “Seek” marks the directorial debut of Shane Kosugi, after a whole life in front of the camera on film and television, to bring us a story with old-fashioned flavor, that follows a Ninja agent from a ninja secret organization called Seek, who’s requested by his superior to save a fellow agent that’s been kidnapped by a rival organization and in the meantime, recover a new highly explosive liquid called “RDX@” to stop a ruthless Yakuza leader. But things won’t go as planned. Shane shakes a good cocktail […]

SQUAD 36 Review: Olivier Marchal´s latest action thriller lands in Netflix with a potential that doesn’t go full throttle.

A crime thriller directed by veteran director Oliver Marchal, based on a novel by Michel Tourscher titled “Flics Requiem,” Novel that was initially conceived as a sequel to Marchal’s film, “36 Quai des Orfevres.” The film follows Antoine Cerda (Victor Belmondo), a police officer with unorthodox methods, who investigates the death of some colleagues, stumbling upon a network of police corruption that he will try to uncover. The cast is led by Victor Belmondo, grandson of the legendary Jean-Paul Belmondo. The heir to such an illustrious film surname holds his own well as the protagonist, although comparisons to his grandfather are odious and unfair. Because who could live up to someone as unique and unrepeatable as the protagonist of gems like “The Professional” or “Breathless?” Exactly, no one… Not even his grandson, who bears a strong physical resemblance to the star. Squad 36 has a powerful start with good action […]

JFF THEATER: I AM WHAT I AM Review: An ode to individualism

Kasumi is a thirty-year-old single woman who is pressured by her family to find a husband and get married. However, she has no interest in following social patterns and wants to live without being subject to social conventions of any kind. Shinya Tamada, through a script by Atsushi Asada, reflects on the screen an ode to individualism that challenges social norms and traditional conventions, building a story heavily influenced by social movements promoted in the world of Western entertainment. In the end, the film seems to advance in fits and starts, having a clear message, but digressing too much to express it in interesting subplots that do not end up taking off. The final result is an enjoyable film, although lacking in hook, where the ideological subtext eclipses the plot and the main character. Available in Japanese foundation free streaming service JFF Theater https://es.jff.jpf.go.jp

JFF Theater: PROJECT DREAMS: HOW TO BUILD MAZINGER Z’S HANGAR Review: An ode to enthusiasm driven by Go Nagai´s legacy

Based on true events, this crazy film tells us in a light-hearted and comedic tone the story behind the Japanese construction company Maeda, and the project they carried out to design the hangar to store the Mazinger Z robot and replicate his epic exit to the surface. Showing a lot of love for Go Nagai’s legacy, and featuring a multitude of references to it, the film moves at a frenetic pace, even allowing itself to include a shy little romance between two of its characters, giving the plot large doses of comedy and a few touches of inevitable nostalgia, gradually building up an ode to enthusiasm so energetic and contagious that it makes you feel like Koji Kabuto at the controls of Mazinger Z. Along with the characters, we participate in the gestation of the project and the many obstacles they had to overcome to turn their crazy idea into […]

JFF Theater: MY BROKEN MARIKO Review: The Everlasting Bond of True Friendship.

Shiino is a sullen office worker exploited by her boss, who discovers through the news that her best friend, Mariko, has just committed suicide. After the initial shock, Shiino decides to steal her friend’s ashes from her abusive father, to embark on a journey with her and discover the reasons behind her death. Based on the manga of the same name written by Waka Hirako, My broken Mariko is an emotional story of friendship in the form of road movie, which delves into the complicated intricacies of the human psyche, showing the strong bond of friendship between the two main characters through multiple flashbacks, which lead us through the unstable fractures in Mariko‘s soul, after a life of suffering, towards that fatal outcome that not even the strong bond of friendship that united her to Shiiro could avoid. “My Broken Mariko” ends up being a moving story to which its […]

JFF Theater: KIMBA, THE WHITE LION Review: The Tezuka´s classic that inspired The Lion King

The Japanese foundation continues spreading Japanese culture on their free streaming platform, offering from February, 1 until May, 1, a wide variety of films that comes from intimate dramas such as “My Broken Mariko” or “I am what am”, to stories with gluttony as their central axis, such as “The God of Ramen” or “School´s meals time of graduation” or delicious tales as “Bread of happiness” to funny comedies as “Project Dreams- How to build Mazinger Z´s hangar“, this month including animes such as Ozamu Tezuka´s classic, “Jungle Emperor Lion aka Kimba, the white Lion.” The movie I will comment on in this review The success of Osamu Tezuka‘s manga and its subsequent animated adaptation for television led to Kimba making the leap to the big screen in Japanese cinemas with this adventure that is basically a montage in the form of a 70-minute feature film of the television series. […]