Vance Ang

About Vance Ang

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Vance Ang has primarily been professionally published in bodybuilding and fitness since 2005, having written extensively for hardcopy publications such as Australian IRONMAN and FLEX; but also for e-publications such as RAW Muscle and more recently the media platform, The Evolution of Bodybuilding. He is a Melbourne based policy and strategy consultant currently undertaking his post graduate study in Law. In addition to bodybuilding, conservative politics and Savate (French Kickboxing), he has long been a fan of movies and cinema of all genres – subsequently prompting an interest in modern story telling, that being script writing. He is in the process of writing his first horror novel ‘Providence’

Posts by Vance Ang:

‘BULLETS, BRUTALITY…and BODYBUILDING’ – Film Preview for ‘LOVE LIES BLEEDING’ (2024)

Vance Ang

Evoking movies such as ‘TRUE ROMANCE’ (1993), ‘KALIFORNIA’ (1993) and even ‘BOUND’ (1996) the premise of ‘LOVE LIES BLEEDING’ (2024) is more than just a by the numbers crime thriller with a dash of steamy romance between two same sex protagonists. Yet to deem this as provocative would be overly simplistic and reductive when one considers the likes of the versatile Kirsten Stewart, the scenery chewing villainy of Ed Harris and the somewhat underrated Dave Franco in a supporting role. The stand out of this brisk and vibrant trailer is undoubtedly Katy M O’Brian, who transformed her physique into that of an authentic bodybuilding competitor. The inclusion of bodybuilding in one of the female leads, makes for an intriguing thematic hook; given the nature of the film, this could easily have been interchanged with another discipline. Yet the pursuit of this characterisation within the narrative presents something far more unique, […]

NAPOLEON Trailer Teases An Explosive, Epic Study Of The Roots Of A Longstanding Notorious Complex

Vance Ang

In what is a masterstroke of collaborative genius, director Ridley Scott teams helms the latest biographical piece on one of history’s most prolific and successful leaders, with Joaquin Phoenix in the titular role. The size and scale of the film is evident in the large scale battles, with evidently no expense spared in these gigantic wars. But ultimately, the trailer highlights the interpersonal relationship between the French leader and Josephine (Vanessa Kirby) as the linchpin and key narrative device. The versatility of Scott is undeniable with a suite of films that are as diverse as Phoenix’ own film catalogue, but far more extensive from ALIEN (1979), BLADE RUNNER (1982) and BLACK RAIN (1989), to BLACK HAWK DOWN (2001) and PROMETHEUS (2012) – this is yet a another demonstration of his broad expertise in modern cinema. Given that this film is clearly a character study, as much as it is a […]

THE LAST KUMITE: YouTuber David Kurzhal (a.k.a. Viking Samurai) Joins Indie Martial Arts Thriller

Vance Ang

He has the beard of Chuck Norris; the physique of Sylvester Stallone; the lethally stoic demeanour of Dolph Lungren; the handsome Eurasian looks of Keanu Reeves, Mark Dacascos and the late Brandon Lee, and what’s more, he kicks like Jean Claude Van Damme and Phillip Rhee. Who is he exactly? Well, it’s none other than David Kurzhal aka the popular Viking Samurai on YouTube who is the recent addition to ‘THE LAST KUMITE’ which is due to start filming in Europe in the coming weeks. Kurzhal is the perfect inclusion for this throwback film which tugs on the nostalgia strings of many of us that grew up in the VHS era of the 80s and 90s, where action movies reigned supreme and genius daring directors like Sheldon Lettich ruled at the international box office. In recent years, the zeitgeist of those eras is enjoying somewhat of a renaissance with the […]

THE CREATOR: Gareth Edwards’ Latest Teases Artificial Aggression In The First Trailer

Vance Ang

From the director of the surprise hit ‘STAR WARS: ROGUE ONE’ (2016) comes what looks to be an intriguing post-apocalyptic film exploring the human drama amidst a horrific conflict between humans and robots. Although that premise is nothing new, given the last decade the idiosyncrasy stems from the relationship between the weathered special forces soldier played by John David Washington and his adopted child – who happens to be a robot. Tensions arise as the new father, is forced to choose between the fate of humanity and his new ward. Evidently English director Gareth Edwards has cut his teeth specifically on the science fiction genre, apart from the kaiju revamp that was ‘GODZILLA’ (2014) but what he has devised here could almost be the sci-fi equivalent of ‘ROAD TO PERDITION’ (2002). However, with automation becoming more and more prevalent in contemporary society this film may also offer a bleak message about AI […]

Cynthia Rothrock, Kurt McKinney and More Join THE LAST KUMITE

Vance Ang

The blockbuster success of Chad Stahelski’s JOHN WICK CHAPTER 4 (2023) is perhaps indicative of the current state of modern cinema. The last decade has been heavily dominated by the superhero genre, with the MCU seemingly replacing the traditional action genre introducing audiences to pre-existing lore – with huge budgets enabling the use of CGI and special effects, designed to WOW the film going public. Yet it might be fair to say that these films may be losing their lustre, with the momentum largely slowing down as the glitzy novelty somewhat fades. Whilst movies like ‘JOHN WICK’ (2014 – 2023) and ‘BULLET TRAIN’ (2022) do utilise special effects, these seemingly evoke the action movies of the bygone era of the 80s and 90s. The action films of the great Sheldon Lettich were vibrant and sexy, championed by the likes of Jean Claude Van Damme. Similarly the Hong Kong action genre […]

‘LEGENDARY LETTICH LOST MEDIA’ – Review: FIREFIGHT (1986)

Vance Ang

This movie critic must preface this review with a brief historical comment, that this long dormant short film written and directed by cinema great Sheldon Lettich was shot in 1983 and finished in 1986. It’s been well over three decades and finally, his vision of war has been carefully reconstructed for release – and this movie critic was one of the very first people to watch and critically assess it. FIREFIGHT (1986) stands at just over 16 minutes in duration, where we are treated to a very bleak war time scenario with a tired voiceover denoting the perilous circumstances faced by his platoon. Joe Turano sings the sombre ‘Good Christian Soldier’ further adding to the dour tone of the film. The premise is simple and direct. A rescue mission goes awry on a Vietnamese hilltop, with a squad of marines besieged by Viet Cong forces. Though whilst the acting may […]

ON THE LINE Review: Mel Gibson’s Latest Dials In A Pure Thriller That Doesn’t Leave You On Hold

Vance Ang

With much recent film buzz dedicated to Chad Staheski’s long-anticipated JOHN WICK 4 (2023) among other blockbusters being released, it is somewhat sad to see that Mel Gibson’s recent film ‘ON THE LINE’ (2023) overshadowed by other offerings – when in all honesty, Gibson’s work should never be ignored. Regardless of his exploits beyond the silver screen, the man is quite simply one of the greatest gifts to modern cinema; a talented actor, director, and icon that should command more respect than be recognised for courting controversy. (And yes, as this movie critic is Australian there is a clear bias but one that is justified and vindication especially if one refers to his large catalog of films). Upon viewing the trailer, ON THE LINE does prima facie, share some similar DNA with a little-known TV series from the 80s named ‘MIDNIGHT CALLER’ that seems to have all been forgotten despite […]

THE OTHER FELLOW Review: Matthew Bauer’s Newest Doc Will Leave You Shaken AND Stirred

Vance Ang

The Other Fellow arrives in U.S. theaters and on-Demand from Gravitas Ventures beginning February 17. Enthusiastically pursuing this review was predicated on the very title as much as it was the fascinatingly engaging trailer. For the uninitiated or perhaps those who are unfamiliar with the Bond of generations past, one of the most memorable moments in ‘HER MAJESTY’S SECRET SERVICE’ (1969) has Aussie 007 George Lazenby famously breaking the fourth wall and addressing the audience. He does this with the very decidedly Australian vernacular, a boldness that is imbued with the cheeky larrikinism that does form part of the endearing Aussie DNA. Simultaneously, as Lazenby’s Bond utters this quip he immediately addresses an element of Bond lore than is often raised but never formally confirmed. That is to say, that James Bond and the associated 007 designation is neither exclusively owned by a singular person – but rather a signature […]

AS GOOD AS DEAD Review: Michael Jai White’s Latest Is As Good As Awful

Vance Ang

As Good As Dead is now available in select theaters and on Digital from Samuel Goldwyn Films The latest offering from action stalwart Michael Jai White, is for all intents and purposes is a meandering and tedious affair. As if to capitalise on the ‘bullied teen’ trope, that is more masterfully handled in ‘COBRA KAI’ (2018 to current) and its ancestor ‘THE KARATE KID’ (1984), ‘AS GOOD AS DEAD’ (AGAD) appears to borrow these themes of the teacher-student dynamic but executes it so poorly that even the excellent Tom Berenger and the underrated Louis Mandylor can’t save this from mediocrity. White has penned a barely passable script that veers between acceptable and confusing, as AGAD tells the story of a kind-hearted yet bullied Latino teen named Oscar (Luca Oriel) who is doing his best to defer the influence of his older brother Hector (Guillermo Ivan), a notorious gang member. As […]

‘FEAR AUTOMATA’ – Preview for ‘M3GAN’ (2023)

Vance Ang

To help her niece Katie deal with grief, brilliant roboticist and toy maker Gemma (Allison Williams) gets more than she bargained for when her creation, M3GAN begins to exhibit questionable behaviours that put those around her at risk. The creation of a new family unit, ushers in the presence of a robotic family member with the best of intentions and whilst the initial phases of interactions appear to be sweet and heart warming – this quickly changes into something more problematic and lethal. Though clearly capitalising on our modern fear of sinister automation and sentient AI, the film might be somewhat of an homage to DEADLY FRIEND (1986), CHILD’s PLAY (1990) and to a lesser extent ‘ELECTRIC DREAMS’ (1984) though the latter is a stretch as it is apparent that this robotic horror is anything but hilarious. The convenience afforded by modern technology in the extreme circumstances present unwanted and […]

‘Blind Fury’ – Movie Preview ‘RAGEAHOLIC’ (2022)

Vance Ang

Written and directed by Yoshiki Takahashi, and based on a story by Yuki Kobayashi (Death Row Family) ‘RAGEHOLIC’: ADDICTED TO ANGER (2022) is currently playing in its native Japan and could pique the interest of those into the more intense crime thrillers – though this looks to capitalize more on a brutal narrative, rather than a more idiosyncratic slow more refined burn seen in the works of the legendary, Takeshi Kitano. ‘RAGEHOLIC’ presents an intense and suffocating film that seems to be the modus operandi of a lot of more recent Japanese crime thrillers which are intensely violent; yet also portraying an honest depiction of flawed individual regardless of what side of the law they are on. Depictions of characters ultimately can be subverted with an extremity that is so deliberate, but not the point of parody; whilst the detectives on the side of the law become dogged with determination […]

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Documentary Movie Review “FOR A BETTER BODY, ARDENTIFIED”: ‘SUPPS: The Movie” (2019)

Vance Ang

“Why people take supplements? To have an edge, it’s as simple as that. Diet can take you just so-far, and nutritional supplements (in addition to) is something that can complete and enhance your nutrition” – Milos Sarcev, Former IFBB bodybuilding Pro champion and International Coach/Spokesperson Certainly, within the last few years, there has been nothing specifically as well-crafted on the topic of sports supplements and seeing that this documentary project was helmed by none other than Alex Ardenti, this made this movie mandatory viewing.Within bodybuilding and fitness media, Alex Ardenti’s name is a veritable verb with both of his photographic and videography amongst the highest regarded, as much as he is sought after. There is an unmistakable quality to his work, everything from the lighting and framing to the most intricate of make-up – it is sexy and alluring, yet powerful and potent. A brilliance permeates this documentary, whether it […]

EMBATTED Brings The Pain To The UK This July From Dazzler

Movie Review: Embattled (2020) – “FIGHTING WITH MY FAMILY”

Vance Ang

Given its popularity MMA has become the go-to subject matter for various films of varying qualities, with the variety of styles as diverse as the fighting methods presented in the cages around the world. Case in point ‘EMBATTLED’ (2020) which uses the MMA theme as a backdrop to tell the story of a fractured father-son relationship, and the tragedy that is often associated with broken familial ties. The troubled family presents an abusive and greedy MMA fighter Cash (Stephen Dorff) who despite mistreating his family is still somehow idolised by his young son Jett (Darren Mann), who seeks to don the gloves and fight like his father. Ultimately, this is a serviceable story about family dynamics with the MMA theme, with familial conflict playing out in a literal adversarial environment complete with actual combat. There is somewhat of a neat paradox, as the mending of a broken link is mended […]

“AUSSIE OUTBACK VENGEANCE” – Retro Re-release Movie Review: FAIR GAME (1986)

Vance Ang

Quentin Tarantino, when referring to Fair Game (1986), said the following: “FAIR GAME’ has badass scary bitching mechanical monsters, bad guys are driving…they are kangaroo killers which automatically makes them the bad guys…and they’re f**king with the chick” Indeed, following in the footsteps of classic revenge films such as ‘DEATH WISH’ (1974) and ‘EXTREMITIES’ (1986), Mario Andreacchio 1986’s Ozploitation thriller presents a unique narrative where the star power is not only in the small and talented cast, but in the isolated and hot Australian outback. An attractive and seemingly timid outback nature reserve keeper Jessica (Cassandra Delaney) suddenly become targeted by a group of thugs, initially out to hunt kangaroos but soon focus all their attention on Jessica. The harassment gradually escalates in severity, with the three thugs initially running her off the road but their tormenting becomes more sinister as they stalk her and break into her farm-house. This […]

Movie Review: The Prey – Legend of Karnoctus – “TERRIFYINGLY MEDIOCRE”

Vance Ang

The simplistic story tells the tale of a contingent of soldiers in Afghanistan joining forces with mercenaries that encounter a hideous monster (the titular, Karnoctus) in a cave; with the outcome being a quest for survival against the isolation of a cave but also the presence of an unfamiliar and otherworldly enemy. Amongst the typical horror movie tropes, are two CIA agents Tagger (Nick Chinlund) and Reid (Kevin Grevioux) that are hell bent on accessing some elusive materials whilst the Sgt Griffin (Justin Arnold) must navigate the tunnels and managing the escalating fear within his team of grunts. It can be somewhat entertaining in parts with a few jump scares and gore-filled shock scenarios, but it is otherwise a by-the-numbers horror film with a foreign setting. In many ways the lack of nuance means that the film can be categorised as mindless pop-corn entertainment, as it can be readily enjoyed […]

‘Massively Talented’ – Preview of THE UNBEARABLE WEIGHT OF MASSIVE TALENT (Aprill 2022)

Vance Ang

Nic Cage is back with THE UNBEARABLE WEIGHT OF MASSIVE TALENT (2022). This newest trailer sees one of the true kings of method acting, hamming it up as a version of himself played for laughs as a blatant parody. Transcending the typical buddy cop formula, Director Tom Gormican has crafted a very self-aware comedy that looks to capitalise on the manic yet versatile nature of Cage coupled with the straight laced Pedro Pascal. The set up is bizarre as it is hilarious with the actor Nic Cage morphing into his action hero guises in order to rescue his besieged wife and daughter from a drug lord – who also happens to be a fan! One could assert that being such a fiercely meta-fiction piece, would easily paint this a form of post-modern post-modernism however at its core it would appear that this film exists for Cage to have fun with […]

“AMERICAN RENAISSANCE” – Interview with American Gladiator and actor Deron McBee

Vance Ang

For context, this journalist needs to elucidate the following in the first person. I was (and still am) a huge fan of the 90s iteration of American Gladiators (AG), viewing these instead of episodes of ‘Friends’ (which I still cannot stand) on VHS tapes that fellow high school friends captured whilst on holiday in the US. To me, Malibu (Deron Michael McBee) was the epitome of confidence, matched by incredible ability and the profound knack for engaging the crowd simply with cues and mannerisms. There was a truly spectacular roster of American Gladiators, with a range of diverse athletic background and sports. Personally, having written professionally within the sport of bodybuilding, I could assert the valid hypothesis that AG was instrumental in further promoting an otherwise niche sport of bodybuilding and/or fitness to a mainstream audience. Indeed, like many chaps around the world, as a teenager I adored the gorgeous […]

Retro Review: BULLITT, A Look Back At The King of Cool’s Signature Role!

Vance Ang

Referring to ‘BULLITT’ as iconic would be to over-simplify the cultural significance of the movie, especially given its status within the cinematic landscape. Beyond the signature car chase, the film is a masterclass in casting, editing and even has a score by the great Lalo Schifrin – but limiting praise to those singular elements would still be a disservice to the movie in its entirety. Sadly, these days most will forget that the movie is a competent thriller, and perpetually refer to the aforementioned chase scene before delving into McQueen’s stellar performance throughout. In this simple and straight forward thriller, McQueen stars as the titular Lt Frank Bullitt, an anti-authoritarian cop assigned to protect Johnny Ross (Pat Renella) before he testifies against the Mob (known as The Outfit) at a Senate subcommittee. However, like any neo-noir gangster film The Outfit puts out a hit on their former associate killing him, […]

SPIDER-MAN: NO WAY HOME (2021) Review: New Dawn, Post Eclipse

Vance Ang

With the conclusion of the last film FAR FROM HOME (2019) literally jeopardising Peter Parker’s double life, SPIDER-MAN: NO WAY HOME (‘NWH’) creates the most turmoil for the long-suffering young superhero. NWH picks up where the last film left off, and with the whole world now privy to his secret identity Peter Parker has the unenviable task of balancing this revelation as well as its impacts on those nearest and dearest to him. With the absence of the now deceased Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jnr) and the AWOL Nick Fury (Samuel L Jackson), Parker no longer has the oversight of the cool charismatic father figure in Stark or the stereotypically irate stepfather in Fury. However, the convenient inclusion of Dr Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch) fills this mentor position in doing his best to guide the well meaning yet inexperienced young superhero. Following a brief but memorable appearance by Matt Murdoch aka […]

‘COACH VS CLIENT: On the topic of Horror Films’

Vance Ang

The premise behind Coach vs Client (‘C vs C’) is predicated on one key element of the training sessions that I myself have with Coach Justin Perillo, as the topic of film are a mainstay of the conversations in between sets and for the heavier ones we’d often evoke a film that resonates in that very moment. With each new recommendation, is the obvious exchange in ideas and the very pursuit of new material based on the discussion. In this iteration of C vs C for FILM COMBAT SYNDICATE, The Coach (Justin) has selected the topic of horror movies and below are his Top 5 followed by that of The Client (myself) COACH’s TOP 5 HORROR FILMS 5. OCULUS (2013)The basic plot of the movie doesn’t sound that exciting or scary. A woman tries to prove that past murders committed by her brother who is now in an institution for […]