Can't Buy Me Love is still the highest rated series for 2010

TVB's Anniversary Awards for 2010 will be help at 8.30pm on December 5th. The battle for TV King and TV Queen is reportedly down to the leads from 2 series, No Regrets and Can't Buy Me Love. [CBML] was aired earlier and received high ratings as well as praises from the viewers while [NR] also managed to garner some praises for having a wonderful story. At the same time, [NR] was heavily promoted during TVB's Anniversary Gala thus boosting its chances at the coming awards.

It was reported earlier that Charmaine Sheh may not be attending the awards show as she will be working in China. However, the actress may have a change of heart and might be attending the annual awards show. Reporters contacted Charmaine to verify this piece of news. As [CBML] is the highest rated series for 2010, Charmaine said that the Producer of [CBML], Miu Siu Ching should be the happiest.

Charmaine was once again asked about her hopes for the TV Queen award, which she says "I am feeling very normal, I personally don't have any big battle feeling, try my best!" As for whether she will return to HK for the award show, Charmaine explains that her manager is trying to schedule time-off for her from the Chinese film crew. Charmaine adds, "I still have to go back that night because I am part of the nominations and I want to participate too. However, I really don't have time to try out the jewelry and outfit, so will leave everything to my manager!"

Sheren Tang was filming an advertisement and was approached by reporters. The finale ratings for [NR] did not manage to break the ratings for [Jewel in the Palace]. Sheren explains that she is not disappointed with the ratings. She reasons that viewers can now re-watch the series online and perhaps that may influence the ratings.

Popular HK veteran actor, Chow Yun Fat was quote as saying that the battle for Best Actress this year will come down to Charmaine Sheh versus Sheren Tang. Upon hearing this, Sheren quickly expresses her thanks to the actor, "Really thank him for the support, sometimes when I see him, I would get his advice! I personally have confidence, but the other opponents are very strong too." Sheren also joked that her character, "Kau Ku Leung" is very complicated and tough to portray, thus she may win the "Most Improved Award" as well. She also praised Charmaine for doing well in [CBML].

Source: Oriental Daily with translations by aZnangel@ AsianUniverse.net

Twilight Investigation

Cast:
Wong Hei as Gei On Kui
Linda Chung as Chung Yee Tak
Raymond Wong as Chow Ka Sing
Chris Lai as Yau Sam Kit
Shek Sau as Yip Kwok Cheung
Johnson Lee
Power Chan
Rebecca Chan
Kingdom Yuen

Total Episodes: 25 episodes
Aired Dates: November 29 to December 31, 2010
Time Slot: Mondays to Fridays, 8.30pm
Channel: Astro Channel 901

Synopsis:
Yip Kwok Cheung, a former police officer, sets up a Private Investigator Agency. Each of his PIs (private investigator) have their own strengths and area of expertice. Gei On Kui is the lead PI at the agency. On Kui has never failed to solve a case no matter how tough/complicated/mysterious the case seem to be.

While investigating a case, On Kui gets to know a popular fashion model, Chung Yee Tak. Yee Tak comes from a broken family. She is an introvert and is most of the time lonely. Her low self-esteem causes problems for her at work and also in her love life.

After encountering a drunk driving incident, Yee Tak sees life differently. She decides to search for her long lost mother, whom she ran away from when she was younger. To search for her mother, Yee Tak gets the help of On Kui from the reknown PI Agency. On Kui decides to help Yee Tak as he symphatises with her. During the course of investigation, On Kui stumbles upon a secret that even Yee Tak doesn't know.

Felix Wong and Micheal Miu explain outbursts

The Gun Metal Grey sage continues.

Eileen Cha, a popular radio DJ in Hong Kong, invited Michael Miu and Felix Wong to her radio show. This opportunity gives Michael and Felix a chance to clarify and address the issue.

Michael kicked off the program by jokingly blaming Felix for the entire fiasco. Felix replied that whatever he wrote on Weibo was heartfelt and they are the words from his heart. He was truly upset by the arrangements (or rather lack of arrangement). However, Felix added that it never crossed his mind that by posting his thoughts on Weibo could generate such a huge reaction to the whole situation.

Felix explained that although he may not be a TVB contracted artiste, he was sincere in wanting to participate in the Anniversary. When Felix realised that not a single Gun Metal Grey cast attended the gala and the series was barely mentioned, that is the point when Felix exploded.

Felix is well-known for his "explosive" temper, but according to the actor, his "explosion" this time around can only be a measly level 2. In the past, he would have stomped directly to the senior management to voice his dissatisfaction.

Michael and Felix both agree that the promotions for all series should be impartial and fair. They also reiterate what Producer Lee Tim Sing said in his Lifetime Achievement Award acceptance speech, "a little more fairness, a little less selfishness".

Felix credits TVB for his and Michael's successes. "Without TVB, both Michael and I would not have the success we have today, so I sincerely want TVB to be dominant in all of Asia and continue to improve as well as progress. It’s because of my deep affection for the company that I feel an obligation to reproach when I see such injustices," Felix explained further.

When asked if Felix will be attending TVB's Anniversary Awards on December 5, Felix pushes the decision making to Michael. He says if Micheal attends then he will too. Michael and Felix are both nominated for the Best Actor award.

Micheal shared that Felix has remained the same throughout the years. According to Michael, Felix is still as outspoken as before and still has a loving family. Micheal plays down the situation with TVB and advises everyone to treat Felix's outbursts as an indirect promotion for [GMG].

Source: Mingpao with translations by llwy12@ AsianFanatics.net

Tavia Yeung puts rumours to rest

Recently, there are numerous reports claiming TVB actress, Tavia Yeung, to have a crooked chin which was caused by nerve inflamation. Left with no other options, Tavia has spoken out against those reports.

Tavia admits that she has indeed fallen ill about a month ago while filming TVB new series, The Truth. She had a stiff neck and had difficulty speaking. However after seeking treatment, she explains that she has recovered. It was a strain of flu that caused inflamed nerve. However, Tavia emphasises that she does not have a crooked chin.

The doctor note that Tavia is very stresses and advises her to get more rest. Tavia assures fans that she has recovered but to enhance her health, she is taking more Chinese tonics and is continuing her acupunture treatment. She also does not forget to thank everyone for their concern.

Source: Oriental Daily with translations by aZnangel@ AsianUniverse.net

Virginia Lok steps out to settle Gun Metal Grey issue

TVB was previously accused of neglecting anniversary series Gun Metal Grey at its 43rd Anniversary Gala. And Felix Wong and Michael Miu, both leads from [GMG] are reportedly annoyed with TVB for the snub. To mend bridges among the parties involved, Virgina Lok has stepped out to settle the issue.

Virginia has spoken to Felix and explains that Felix is an outspoken person who will speaks out whenever he feels that there is injustice. She reveals that Felix is not angry at TVB. In fact, Felix has agreed to guest star in TVB's lunar new year movie I Love Hong Kong. Virginia adds that after Felix cools down then he will be alright.

Virginia also explain that as [GMG] was aired a little later than No Regrets, this may lead to one feeling as though [NR] was promoted a little more than [GMG]. However, she shares that more promotion will be dome for [GMG] in days/weeks to come.

Virginia explains that despite Felix's outbursts, he will be attending [GMG]'s promotional events. However, it is unsure if Felix will attend TVB's Anniversary Awards.

Felix was interviewed by TVB's entertainment news channel and he revealed that he came back to film [GMG] to help Michael Miu. Felix also praised the cast of [GMG] for having good spirits and are passionate about their work. Felix admitted that he follows [GMG] every night but added that his passion for acting is not as strong as it used to be. He is contented with his semi-retirement lifestyle.

Source: Oriental Daily with translations by aZnangel@ AsianUniverse.net

Earlier story: Gun Metal Grey snubbed at TVB Anniversary Gala

Gun Metal Grey snubbed at TVB Anniversary Gala

TVB's 43 Anniversary Gala was held on Friday, November 19. However, the event was plagued by a controversy. TVB was accused of neglecting its anniversary series, Gun Metal Grey in favour of its other anniversary series, No Regrets.

The prologue of the Anniversary was a satrical skit of TVB high rated series for 2010 such as Can't Buy Me Love, No Regrets, Every Move You Make, When Lanes Merge and The Mysteries of Love. However, the highly rated Gun Metal Grey was not included in the skit. Moreover, the majority of the cast for [GMG] was not invited to attend the gala.

Michael Miu and Felix Wong share dissatisfaction via social media

Felix Wong was very much upset by TVB's alleged snub and vent his anger on microblogging platform, Weibo. Felix posted, "Someone said a well applauded series does not get attention, lacks promotion and was repeatedly suppressed... Which company is this? " Michael Miu, his co-star in [GMG] replied with Not a company... did a person do this?. This prompted Felix to post another reply, totally very bad, I'll hold it!

After both Felix and Michael's Weibo post went live, many reporters were quick to seek both for their explaination on the matter. Michael was frank in his reply and said that TVB isn't giving [GMG] the attention it deserve. "Before there was little promotion, now we didn't get invited to the anniversary celebration, really what happened? Did we offend someone?" Felix also shares Michael's dissatisfaction, "Many fans asked me why it's like that? I also want to know why, I am part of the audience too, I don't know what policy TVB has."

Reporters asked Felix if he will get an explanation from TVB but Felix said that was unnecessary and said TVB should make the explaination on TV instead. He also added that TVB did not even extend the invitation to the anniversary gala to even 1 cast member* from [GMG]! " It's fine that they didn't even mention [GMG], but TVB should really at least ask us if we want to attend... turns out that they didn't ask any one of us, I already asked Michael and Jessica Hsuan," said Felix.

Tong Kei Ming, the producer of [GMG] also felt that the cast of [GMG] was treated poorly, "TVB should be taking care of their artists regardless. I can only say gold fears no fire, it's good enough the series got good public praises!"

TVB Anniversary Gala's program producer, Wai Sai Fai, does not agree with Michael and Felix's outbursts. He clarified that the anniversary gala was to celebrate TVB's anniversary and not a platform for series promotion. It is meant to be an entertaining and relaxing show. Wai said, "[GMG] is a law enforcement drama, serious dramas cannot be played with. Actually, the sitcom Some Day wasn't invited either, we considered what's right to play with before we made arrangements. Even if many of the artists didn't do a performance, they still got to be on stage for a raffle drawing to win prizes. I don't understand why they (Michael and Felix) didn't come, but the artiste department is responsible for arranging the artists, I also feel pitiful, I don't understand why they are unsatisfied, why didn't they say so before the fact. I always have my phone on, if there is a complaint, why didn't call me to talk about it!"

Jessica Hsuan and Nancy Wu respond to the issue

Jessica Hsuan confirms that she was not invited to attend TVB's Anniversary Gala but claims that she "expected it". She says, "I already mentioned it to Felix before, it has been different in the last few years, know it in the heart. Artistes can just do well on their own part, having audience support is already satisfying enough. Perhaps he left the company for too long and didn't know! He's a good actor, if he stops then it's a pity. He is hardworking, not getting the attention is not fun! TVB should also be more fair, in fact the series has lots of supporters. When I was doing facial, young girls were saying they were watching Felix and Michael as they ate dinner, proves that they got the young girls' heart!"

Meanwhile, Nancy Wu who starred in both [GMG] and [NR] gave a neutral answer when she was asked to comment on Felix's outbursts. Nancy explained, "Felix is really crafty, his words actually has an ulterior motive, he wants to use this extreme method to promote the series. The cast from our series have a very good relationship off-screen. Every time the public gives good reactions, we always go out for a meal!" Nancy also confirms that she will be attending TVB's Anniversary Awards on December 5.

Pierre Ngo and Evergreen Mak respond as well

Pierre Ngo and Evergreen Mak was in TVB for the recording of Fun with Liza and the Gods. As both are in [NR], reporters asked for their comments as well. Pierre feels that TVB did not deleberately neglect [GMG]. He adds that he watches [GMG] every night and it's a good series.

Evergreen also comments on the issue and says that Felix may just be joking. He says [GMG] has good ratings and he is also following the series.

* Nancy Wu although did attend the gala, she was there to represent No Regrets

Source: 1. Oriental Daily with translations by aZnangel@ AsianUniverse.net; 2. Oriental Daily with translations by aZnangel@ AsianUniverse.net

Links to Temptation to air after Gun Metal Grey

Steven Ma, who is currently busy filming Thunder of the Forbidden City, is excited to learn that his new series, Links to Temptation will be airing soon. [LTT] is scheduled to take the place of the 9.30pm timeslot replacing Gun Metal Grey. Steven reveals, "although I'm covered with cuts and bruises from shooting [Thunder of the Forbidden City], but when I heard that my series is going to air soon, whatever pain I have I can survive!" Steven feels confident in the series regardless of the timeslot given as he feels that a good series will have the support of viewers.

[LTT] sees Fala Chen's first attempt at being a female lead in a series. Fala explains that she loves to partner with Steven, whom she dubbed her "brother". "He has always loved me and can keep secrets. I would usually tell him my concerns and what's on my mind," reveals Fala. Fala also wishes that Steven will take home the coverted TV King award this year, "it would be best if we could both win together for Ghost Writer!"

Source: Mingpao with translations by aZnangel@ AsianUniverse.net

TVB Anniversary Awards Nominee List 2010

Best Actor

Ron Ng - A Chip Off the Old Block
Roger Kwok - The Season of Fate
Kevin Cheng - A Fistful of Stances
Joe Ma - Suspects in Love
Raymond Lam - The Mysteries of Love
Steven Ma - Ghost Writer
Kent Cheng - When Lanes Merge
Bobby Au Yeung - A Pillowcase of Mystery 2
Damien Lau - Growing Through Life
Bosco Wong - Growing Through Life
Moses Chan - Can't Buy Me Love
Bowie Lam - Every Move You Make
Wayne Lai - No Regrets
Felix Wong - Gun Metal Grey
Michael Miu - Gun Metal Grey

Best Actress

Myolie Wu - A Chip Off the Old Block
Kate Tsui - The Beauty of the Game
Maggie Siu - A Watchdog's Tale
Michelle Yim - The Season of Fate
Liza Wang - OL Supreme
Ada Choi - Fly with Me
Tavia Yeung - The Mysteries of Love
Linda Chung - Ghost Writer
Fala Chen - Ghost Writer
Lee Si Kei - Someday
Teresa Mo - Someday
Jessica Hsuan - A Pillowcase of Mystery 2
Maggie Cheung - Beauty Knows No Pain
Charmaine Sheh - Can't Buy Me Love
Sheren Tang - No Regrets

Best Supporting Actor
John Chiang - A Chip Off the Old Block
Derek Kwok - The Season of Fate
Michael Tse - My Better Half
Ron Ng - OL Supreme
Dominic Lam - A Fistful of Stances
Kenny Wong - Fly with Me
Raymond Cho - Fly with Me
Joel Chan - Sisters of Pearl
Kenneth Ma - The Mysteries of Love
Johnson Lee - A Pillowcase of Mystery 2
Louis Yuen - Can't Buy Me Love
Raymond Wong - No Regrets
Pierre Ngo - No Regrets
Evergreen Mak - No Regrets
Vincent Wong - Gun Metal Grey

Best Supporting Actress
Sharon Chan - The Beauty of the Game
Denise Ho - OL Supreme
Selena Li - A Fistful of Stances
Natalie Tong - A Fistful of Stances
Kara Hui - A Fistful of Stances
Queenie Chu - Fly with Me
Kiki Sheung - Sisters of Pearl
Aimee Chan - Someday
Kingdom Yuen - When Lanes Merge
Elaine Yiu - When Lanes Merge
Elena Kong - Beauty Knows No Pain
Toby Leung - Growing Through Life
Susanna Kwan - Can't Buy Me Love
Fala Chen - No Regrets
Nancy Wu - Gun Metal Grey

Favourite Male Character
Sunny Chan - A Chip Off the old Block
Steven Ma - A Watchdog's Tale
Wong Cho Lam - Don Juan DeMercado
Chapman To - OL Supreme
Kenneth Ma - A Fistful of Stances
Him Law - Suspects in Love
Bobby Au Yeung - A Pillowcase of Mystery 2
Johnson Lee - A Pillowcase of Mystery 2
Raymond Lam - The Mysteries of Love
Tsui Wing - Someday
Kent Cheng - When Lanes Merge
Raymond Wong - When Lanes Merge
Moses Chan - Can't Buy Me Love
Louis Yuen - Can't Buy Me Love
Wayne Lai - No Regrets

Favourite Female Character
Myolie Wu - A Chip off the Old Block
Christine Ng - The Beauty of the Game
Kitty Yuen - Don Juan DeMercado
Liza Wang - OL Supreme
Ada Choi - Fly with Me
Tavia Yeung - The Mysteries of Love
Lee Si Kei - Someday
Teresa Mo - Someday
Joyce Tang - Beauty Knows No Pain
Charmaine Sheh - Can't Buy Me Love
Fala Chen - Can't Buy Me Love
Linda Chung - Can't Buy Me Love
Susanna Kwan - Can't Buy Me Love
Lee Heung Kam - Can't Buy Me Love
Sheren Tang - No Regrets

Most Improved Male Artist
Jazz Lam
King Kong
Joel Chan
Raymond Wong
Him Law

Most Improved Female Artist
Selena Li
Elaine Yiu
Natalie Tong
Skye Chan
Mimi Lo

Best Drama Series

A Chip Off the Old Block
The Beauty of the Game
A Watchdog's tale
The Season of Fate
Don Juan DeMercado
My Better Half
OL Supreme
In the Eye of the Beholder
A Fistful of Stances
Suspects in Love
Fly with Me
Sisters of Pearl
The Mysteries of Love
Ghost Writer
Someday
When Lanes Merge
A Pillowcase of Mystery 2
Beauty Knows No Pain
Growing Through Life
Can't Buy Me Love
The Comeback Clan
Every Move You Make
No Regrets
Gun Metal Grey

Source: TVB.Com

Sheren Tang hopes for higher ratings

The second week of TVB anniversary series No Regrets score an average of 31 points, and peaked at 34 points; which is exact same ratings as it's premiere week.

Sheren Tang, who accepted Eileen Cha's interview, was asked for her opinion regarding [NR]'s ratings. [NR] is considered by many to be the competitor to the recently concluded Can't Buy Me Love at this year's TVB Anniversary Awards. Sheren responded, "There is disappointment more or less, but I feel that if series has high ratings does not represent that it's very high quality. It is all accommodated by favorable factors. War and Beauty did not have very high ratings, but was still a city-wide topic."

Sheren was then asked for her opinion about TV King, which sees a tough fight between Sheren's [NR] co-star, Wayne Lai or the lead in [CBML], Moses Chan. Sheren explained that Moses is an actor whom she likes and hope to collaborate with in the future. However, Sheren adds that she did not watch [CBML] and as such it is difficult for her to comment.

Sheren shares that she is still deliberating what series to accept for next year. She would love to film a comedy series but hopes to get a role who is an argumentative woman. She feels that she is still not as good as teresa Mo or Ha Ping in comedies.

Sheren's role as Kau Koo Leung in [NR] has definitely boost her popularity. Recently a magazine re-used Shere's old photo as their cover story. Sheren laughed and says that is very "environmental-friendly". After all they are recycling.

Source: Mingpao, Oriental Daily with translations by aZnangel@ AsianUniverse.net

Gun Metal Grey

Cast:
Felix Wong as Shek Tung Sing / Stone Sir
Michael Miu as Mai On Ding / Mad Sir
Jessica Hsuan as Hui Man Him, Kim
Nancy Wu as Hui Man Sze
Vincent Wong as Carson Ko

Total Episodes: 30 episodes
Aired Dates: November 1 to December, 2010
Time Slot: Mondays to Fridays, 9.30pm
Channel: Astro Channel 921

Synopsis:
Fifteen years ago, Shek Tung Sing, a just and upright police officer, was imprisoned for murder which he did not commit. Now, fifteen years later, he is released from prison and vowed to find out the truth. Unfortunately, after finding out who the real culprit was, Tung Sing is unable to bring him to justice due to the lack of evidence.

Tung Sing was furious and angry at the failed system of justice and supresses his anger within him. Due to this, each time he comes across a case which the law fails to carry out justice, Tung Sing takes matters into his own hands.

Tung Sing's sudden change in character and behaviour worries his best friend, Mai On Ding. It also puts their friendship to test. Tung Sing tries to prevent On Ding from further investigating into a case and in the process hurts On Ding's girlfriend, Hui Man Him.

As a result, On Ding and Tung Sing's relationship took a turn for the worse, and On Ding was determined to bring Tung Sing to face the law.

Gun Metal Grey is a story about a police officer's road to self-destruction as well as provides viewers with an insight into Hong Kong's most famours 10 unsolved crime cases.

Official Site