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:

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“KICK STARTER” – An explorative insight into the lesser-known kickers of film and cinema.

Vance Ang

When it comes to combat, and more specifically martial arts there is a certain exotic appeal to one specific element – kicks. Despite the visibility of grappling thanks in no small part to the prevalence of MMA these days, there is something spectacular about seeing kick techniques demonstrated with real expertise. Though the practicality of high kicks in real combat is always debated, those that can utilize their feet and legs as weapons is no doubt an impressive feat (no pun intended) Yet, this piece does not aim to highlight those kicks already within the mainstream consciousness: ofcourse, Bruce Lee had his famous burst sidekick; Chuck Norris had his signature roundhouse kick; Jean Claude Van Damme had his graceful 360 spin kick; Phillip Rhee had his devastating spinning back kick; Dolph Lungren had his Kyokushin leaping thrust sidekick; whilst daring stars like Scott Adkins, Joey Ansah, Mark Strange, Mark Dacascos […]

“HIRED GUNS” – Series Preview ‘Cowboy Bebop: Live Action Series’ (2021)

Vance Ang

So this critic must preface this trailer preview with a stark admission: The initial news of John Cho being cast as the lead Spike Spiegel didn’t sit well with me; it seemed like a casting oversight to select a non-action star like Cho over Keanu Reeves, who publicly outed himself as a long-time fan of the series. Personally, having trained under the iconic Dan Inosanto I had been privy to the explosiveness of Jeet Kune Do (JKD) and was pessimistic over Cho’s ability to translate this onto the screen. There is no doubt that he is a legitimate actor, but a thespian in a more traditional dramatic sense; certainly not within the context of an action hero who could bring Spike’s interpretation of Bruce Lee’s deadly art into a live action series. Over the years, Reeves himself has made it no secret that he is a big fan of Lee, […]

‘Boldly Insane’ PRISONERS OF THE GHOSTLAND Releasing In Australia Next Month!

Vance Ang

Following on from the excellent MANDY (2018) and COLOUR OUT OF SPACE (2019), Nic Cage appears in another avante-garde offering called ‘PRISONERS OF THE GHOSTLAND’ (2021). Cage stars as a condemned man recruited by a wealthy stranger to locate and rescue his daughter imprisoned by some bizarre cult like group. Though a simplistic premise, the movie itself is anything but one note and even the two-minute trailer evokes two adjectives: boldly insane. Whether real or imagined, this trailer immediately reminded me of the bizarre ‘EL TOPO’ (1970) directed by Alejandro Jodorowsky. Drawing from symbolism from both East and West, the characterisations in ‘PRISONERS OF THE GHOSTLAND’ (2021) unashamedly wear its influences on its sleeve; adapting cowboys in westerns, sword fighters from samurai films and a clear post-apocalyptic setting – again boasting the premise that, anything goes. As it courts various genres, the trailer itself looks somewhat messy and incredibly unfocussed; […]

‘AGGRESSIVELY PACIFIST’ – Preview of PEACEMAKER (2022) Series

Vance Ang

Within the last 24 hours, the trailer for PEACEMAKER (2022) has dropped and has been well received by fans and for good reason. It looks as funny as it does exciting, with James Gunn shifting a focus on the anti-hero character who somewhat personifies the whole concept of a trope or caricature; with a protagonist that is unintentionally self aware. James Gunn’s version of SUICIDE SQUAD (2021) failed to create blockbuster traction despite the all star ensemble cast in its true popcorn romp, eyeing adults with its more mature humour; evidently John Cena’s role as the decidedly douche, Peacemaker (a clear antithesis to Captain America) was the clear standout of the film. Some of the bigger cast names were largely forgettable, whilst Cena shone as a flawed antihero with some excellent one liners, imposing physical presence and an ultimately affable personality. This upcoming HBO MAX series will reportedly explore the […]

“VIDEO NASTY” – Movie Review: V/H/S/94 (2021)

Vance Ang

Just in time for the Halloween season is the latest found footage film, ‘V/H/S/94’ derived from the acclaimed original ‘V/H/S’ from 2012. The release of this first V/H/S was somewhat of a watershed moment in horror; given that the found footage subgenre was being replicated with far too much enthusiastic frequency, the quality of the output was mixed. With its convincing video tape aesthetic, the original boasted some truly exceptional talents such as Adam Wingard, Ti West and David Buckner and unsurprisingly spawned several sequels of varying quality. At its core these were anthology films, with the inclusion ‘found footage’ as a signature narrative device. Most anthology films will possess a primary narrative, or ‘wrap around’ to further draw the viewer into a self-contained universe rather than present these as a blatant episodic format – thus making these as distinct from TV series such as ‘THE TWILIGHT ZONE’, ‘THE OUTER […]

POINT KARATE: Analyzing The Recent Interactions Between Frank Dux And Viking Samurai

Vance Ang

So you might not have known but Frank Dux, the real life inspiration for the 80s action classic ‘BLOODSPORT’, recently had some choice words for popular content creator, VIKING SAMURAI (VS) aka David K. In the last few days VS has addressed this (with the video link below) and I am compelled to do the same. As a means of transparency, I do preface this by saying that I am indeed a devotee of VIKING SAMURAI’S (VS) content and concede that a future collaboration between VS and myself is in the works. And by that same token the nexus with VS, does prompt me to present some form of analysis that portrays VS in a more relevant view – given recent circumstances. Even upon the weight of evidence that is so easily accessible, it is clear enough (at least to me) to identify deficiencies in the claims made against VS […]

HERE COMES A NEW CHALLENGER: Exciting New Trailer For Oliver Harper’s Street Fighter II Doc

Vance Ang

When it comes to YouTube content creators, I have my favourites, the go-to channels that I will frequent with enthusiasm. As the point of interests are so vastly represented, if we focus purely on the entertainment genre my patronage is dedicated to action and pop culture, specifically the great Scott Adkins and his iconic ART OF ACTION interviews; and even more broadly the upcoming brilliance of Viking Samurai, whose productions are so diverse and equally incredible. When it comes to movie reviews, I venture to Ryan Hollinger’s indepth video essays and addicting Irish accent. By contrast Rossatron’s analysis of films possess a level of focus that is unmatched; a similar high-quality element is evident in the works of Accented Cinema who specializes in movies from the Far East. Let’s not forget Canadian Brandon Tenold, whose reviews of cult movies are done with a supremely sardonic comedy that is always entertaining. […]

‘PERSONA NON GRATA – Preview for SPIDER-MAN: NO WAY HOME’ (2021)

Vance Ang

Just as the MCU is on the cusp of the worldwide release of their highly anticipated martial arts epic ‘SHANG CHI & THE LEGEND OF THE TEN RINGS’ (2021), both Sony and Marvel Studios has treated fans to the webs slinging threequel in ‘SPIDER-MAN: NO WAY HOME’ (2021). Seemingly picking up where ‘FAR FROM HOME’ left off, the fall out of Mysterio’s (Jake Gyllenhaal) revelation created that shock ending where Peter Parker’s (Tom Holland) alter ego is literally unveiled to the world; thereby placing him and all his loved ones in a clear and present danger. The consequences of this are duly noted in the new trailer which sees Peter justifiably feeling the life changing effects, and seeking some supernatural intervention from his new mentor in Dr Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch). Somewhat emulating a storyline in the comics called ‘Brand New Day’ from 2008, this newest iteration clearly hints at Peter […]

WATCH: Viking Samurai’s Tribute To ‘The Mountain Dog’ And ‘The White Tiger’

Vance Ang

Having an interest in martial arts and journalistic pedigree in bodybuilding, the loss of two highly influential people literally within the course of 48 hours was quite simply, a shock to the system. On one hand there is the effervescent Australian Brad Allan, who held the distinction of being the first ever Westerner (ie non Oriental) member of the famed Jackie Chan Stunt Team; having graduated from this group into choreographing numerous big budget Hollywood films, including the upcoming MCU martial arts film ‘SHANG CHI & THE LEGEND OF THE TEN RINGS.’ Nicknamed ‘The White Tiger’ and touted as Jackie Chan’s favourite protégé, Allan possessed a real passion and zeal for martial arts and action cinema. On the other hand, there is the influential American John Meadows, the incredible IFBB Pro Bodybuilder, and sought-after Coach; Meadows affectionately known as ‘Mountain Dog’ was loved by the industry as much as for […]

“ITALIAN HORROR IN ULTRA HIGH DEFINITION” – UHD Release of DEEP RED In North America And The UK This October!

Vance Ang

In time for the spooky season is this stunning release of the seminal classic ‘DEEP RED’ aka Profondo Rosso, by the legendary Dario Argento – in UHD format. A seemingly simple murder mystery, ‘DEEP RED’ transcends these tropes and elevates itself into a unique cat-and-mouse escapade, complete with an unremarkable but curious protagonist played by David Hemming. Being somewhat of a blank slate, Argento’s story weaves the audience into the mystery, thus becoming part of the piece – with such investment leading to abject terror. Despite the carnage and sinister subtext ‘DEEP RED’ is beautifully disturbing and for this journalist, rates as the Italian Maestro’s best film; which is hard to assert given that his movie catalogue is unforgettable. Although Argento’s works are stylised and intricate in design, his name is more known within the cult cinema goers rather than in the mainstream and that in itself is sacrilege. The […]

‘THE WAY OF THE PAPER TIGERS’ – Video Interview with Writer Director Bao Tran w/ Producer Al’n Duong

Vance Ang

Early June had presented me with the opportunity to sit down and interview Bao Tran, the Director and Writer behind the breakout action hit comedy ‘THE PAPER TIGERS.’ The time difference thankfully didn’t sully any of the content with Bao and his Producer Al’n Duong, providing a candid and enjoyable conversation – illustrating the story behind this incredible project. The perils of interviewing a duo (a phenomena I had experienced at certain junctures during my journalistic pursuits at Australian IRONMAN bodybuilding and fitness magazine) can present a rather unique dynamic, which results in a two contrasting personalities; thus requiring said journalist to adapt and change the line of enquiry. This was certainly not the case with Bao or Al’n. Both were incredibly receptive and accommodating, despite the immense traction and high praise that this film has garnered these creative talents were very humble and open. Both Bao and Al’n had […]

COACH VS CLIENT: On The Topic of WAR MOVIES

Vance Ang

The premise behind Coach vs Client is predicated on one key element of the training sessions that I myself have with Coach Justin Perillo (aka Coach JP) 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 the first iteration for FILM COMBAT SYNDICATE, The Coach (Justin) has selected the topic of War movies and below are his Top 5 followed by that of The Client (myself) COACH – TOP 5 WAR MOVIES 5. THE DEER HUNTER (1978) – 1970’s Robert De Niro, Christopher Walken and Meryl Streep. Wow. I really loved this film. For a war film, it has a unique quality of being less about the […]

‘SWINE FURY’ – Review of PIG (2021)

Vance Ang

The absolute versatility of Nic Cage, cannot be understated and this is evident in his latest film ‘PIG’ directed by Michael Sarnoski. The brooding atmosphere comes courtesy of Cage’s protagonist, an unkept and dishevelled pig farmer who wrecks havoc on members of the underworld who had abducted his prized truffle pig – uncreatively named Pig. In what initially seems like a backwater John Wick, using any and all means to exact revenge and reclaim what is rightfully his. The muted tone of the film seems to add to the very dour and depressing atmosphere, perhaps laced with some cynical comedy as Cage’s protagonist is a fish-out-of-water in a modern city, seemingly as out of place as the premise of this dark film. Cage plays Robin ‘Rob’ Feld, a once renowned chef turned truffle forager who now appreciates the solitude more than days of fame. Since the passing of his wife, […]

‘John Cena’s FAVOURITE ANIMATED MOVIE (…and 7 other reasons that you should watch FIST OF THE NORTH STAR)’

Vance Ang

The title isn’t bluster and instead evokes WWE star Kurt Angle’s line: ‘It’s true, it’s true’ Yes, John Cena, the famed WWE sports entertainer and Hollywood actor, and co-star of Justin Lin’s newest theatrical release out of Universal Pictures, F9, has openly admitted his fandom for the exciting Japanese manga series written by Buronson and illustrated by Tetsuo Hara. And yet it is merely one of several reasons, that will prompt you to consider watching (or even reading) the legendary FIST OF THE NORTH STAR (FOTNS) The reasons are summarized below: 8. FORMUALIC BUT FAVOURABLE ‘FIST OF THE NORTH STAR’ (‘FOTNS’) doesn’t possess a complex story or narrative, in fact one could argue that the premise is very simplistic in that it is simply the story of a stoic martial artist seeking to locate his beloved fiancée, Yuria. Yet forgoing any complexity, enables the viewer to invest in the emotional […]

AMERICAN FIGHTER Review: Derivative, But Still Packs A Punch

Vance Ang

AMERICAN FIGHTER is not an action film per se but rather a sports drama, think more along the lines of ‘BEST OF THE BEST’ (1989), ‘BLOODSPORT’ (1988) or even ‘ROCKY’ (1976); and though it lacks the same pedigree as those classics, there is still much to like about this film by Director Shaun Paul Piccinino. The clinch here (pun intended) is that the protagonist is not an all American boy-next-door, but rather that of an Iranian refugee seeking his own version of the fabled ‘American dream.’ Yet it eludes him due to his ethnicity, with the 80s setting besieged by conflict in an era of the Iranian hostage crisis and the like. High stakes are immediately established for Ali Jahani (George Kosturos) as he enters himself into underground fighting tournaments in order to raise money to free his mother from Tehran, after his Father (Tony Panterra) is killed by militants. […]

“ENTER THE AUSTRALIAN: THE MAN WHO TRAINED THE MORTAL KOMBATANTS” – A Word With Martial Arts Instructor Nino Pilla

Vance Ang

With over 44 years experience, the name Nino Pilla is synonymous with the more progressive styles of martial arts. Highly regarded by many as one of the world’s top authorities on Bruce Lee’s Jeet Kune Do (JKD, being one of the forerunners to Modern Mixed Martial Arts), his experience has garnered him equal praise and reverence. His high level skill and incomparable knowledge had made him highly sought after, regularly featuring in Silvio Morelli’s famed BLITZ publications where his step by step methodologies were demonstrated the gritty yet refined style of JKD. More recently and very notably, Nino’s expertise was used by Warner Bros with the Hollywood juggernaut using his martial arts coaching skills for one of the biggest blockbuster martial arts fantasy films of 2021. Taking a different route to the Wachowski Brothers who secured HK kung fu choreographer Yuen Woo-Ping, in recent years other Directors such as Doug […]

‘An Elegant Nightmare’ – Retro Review: THE PIANO TEACHER

Vance Ang

Though debated as an art form, cinema can do more than just entertain as it can harness raw emotions to solicit reactions ranging from elation to fear. If one looks hard enough, cinematic avenues beyond the mainstream present themselves and the art that one seeks can quickly distort and ultimately disturb the viewer. From personal experience, one key scene in Gaspar Noe’s ‘IRREVERSIBLE’ (2002) caused me to exit the theatre as I dry wretched; Srđan Spasojević’s ‘A SERBIAN FILM’ (2010) prompted severe insomnia for over two days; Pascal Laugier’s ‘MARTYRS’ (2008) rendered me incapable of eating for a day, whilst the less said about Pier Pasolini’s ‘SALO’ aka ‘120 DAYS OF SODOM’ (1975) or Takashi Miike’s ‘AUDITION’ (1999), the better. Pragmatists will critique such reactions asserting the fictionalized stories as ‘It’s only a movie’ but these are often the same people who may blatantly avoid such alternative genres, rendering their […]

‘Grave Encounters’: ONE GRAVE FOR THREE MEN Review – Fantaspoa 2021

Vance Ang

On a whole, it’d remiss not preface this review with the statement that this journalist is largely unfamiliar with Latin American cinema on the whole. By contrast to the larger, better established European markets as Germany, France or Italy venturing into this nation’s output came with a degree of trepidation. And yet ‘UNA TUMBA PARA TRES’ aka ‘ONE GRAVE FOR THREE MEN’ (OGTM), was a pleasant surprise, though nothing ground breaking – no pun intended. It was included as part of the selection for the recent FANTASPOA Film Festival and given its kitschy entertainment value, it is easy to see why. OTGM starts as a by the numbers crime story with an bank robber/enforcer named Victor (Diego Cremonesi) having his vacation unceremoniously cut short by two colleagues Manuel (Demian Salamon) and Juan (Daniel Pacheco). Understandably fazed by this intrusion Victor reluctantly accompanies his colleagues, on the advice of their mob […]

Movie Review: The Paper Tigers – “FEROCIOUS FERVOR”

Vance Ang

Late one evening, a venerated martial arts master Sifu Cheng (Roger Yuan) is quickly dispatched by a superior opponent cloaked in shadow, who respectfully bows and fades into darkness as the master succumbs to his injuries. Though jarring, it quickly sets a shocking tone for ‘THE PAPER TIGERS’ (TPT) before quickly doing a flashback into the past with three young pupils being mentored by the aforementioned fallen master. The young children are friends Danny, Hing and Jim (played by child actors Kieran Tamondong, Bryan Kinder and Malakai James). Through the literal lens of VHS, these memories show how this trio develop into talented and lethal martial arts fighters, winning challenge matches in high school, at rival dojos and even on the street. Teens Danny (Yoshi Sudarso), Hing (Peter Adrian Sudarso) and Jim (Gui DaSilva-Greene) quickly gain notoriety for their prowess and are dubbed as ‘The Three Tigers’, growing their reputation […]

‘A NEON HEAVEN AND HELL’ – Retro Review of ‘To Live and Die in L.A’

Vance Ang

Based on a crime novel written by Gerald Petievich and released in 1985, ‘TO LIVE AND DIE IN L.A’ (TLDLA) is a vintage cinematic gem that still holds its own today. The movie is a master class that demonstrates what a truly great modern neo-noir crime thriller can be; drenched in pure 80s excess, the movie promotes the era with gleeful enthusiasm. There is a vibrant tone, thanks to synth heavy stylings of British Nu Wave group Wang Chung which perhaps attempts to mask the nihilistic underbelly, in a city riddled with violent conflict and twisted morals. As with any crime thriller, the notion of causality is front and centre with the pursuit of vengeance creating more than its fair share of victims, amongst the willing (and unwilling) participants. Departing from many of the cheeky comedic tropes of buddy-cop movies of the time, TLDLA is far more cynical and its […]