House of Fury (Hong Kong, 2005)

Too much screen time is wasted on unnecessary hi jinks in this modest action thriller that could have been a better venue for its stars. 

The story follows a family of kung-fu practitioners living in Hong Kong as they try to survive an attack from notorious villains. 

Rating: @

Priest (Hollywood, 2011)

Vampires beware; a new hunter is in town in this supernatural action flick with decent visuals but not much on anything else. Paul Bettany stars as a member of a group of vampire killers called “priests” in the very dark and Gothic future. 

This flick has some nifty set design that really gives it an original atmosphere like in the Underworld movies. 

Rating: @@@

Le Grand Chef (Korea, 2007)

A fantastic film about two chefs competing for the grand title of the “Royal Chef” of South Korea. Even if you’re not a fan of cooking, this movie is still a must-see. 

A lot of back-stabbing and rice boiling ensues but it’s done in great taste that makes this flick an attention grabber from start to finish. 

Rating: @@@@

Azumi (Japan, 2003)

Cute J-pop star Aya Ueto shines in the title role in this kinetic, bloody live-action version of the Japanese manga. 

The film follows a girl assassin as she goes about her business trying to kill war-mongering feudal warlords in ancient Japan. 

This flick is a bit too long for its own good running at 2 1/2 hours, but it’s alright since you’ll have a bloody good time watching it. 

Rating: @@@@

Don’t Go Breaking My Heart (Hong Kong, 2011)

Dazzling and expertly made, this cityscape romantic comedy is one charming Hong Kong flick. 

Chinese actress Gao Yuan Yuan turns in a terrific leading lady performance as the film’s main heroine and HK actors Louis Koo and Daniel Wu takes turns in stealing the spotlight as the film’s would-be suitors. 

Rating: @@@@