[Hong Kong TVB Drama 2012] Highs and Lows 雷霆掃毒

sugarplum892 · September 13, 2012

Details:Title: 雷霆掃毒 / liu ting soo duk
English title: Highs and Lows
Producer: Lam Chi Wah
Genre: Modern, Action, Crime
Episodes: 30
Production Company: TVB
Broadcast period: September 24, 2012Replacing: Divas in Distress 巴不得媽媽
Cast:Michael Miu - Heung Wing (Senior Inspector of the Narcotics Bureau Operation Unit)Raymond Lam - Wai Sai-Lok (Senior Inspector of the Intelligence Unit)Ella Koon - Ko Hei-Suen (Team member of the Intelligence Unit)Kate Tsui - Chan Ka-PikBen Wong - Pun Hok-Lai (Chief Inspector of the Operation Unit)Derek Kok - (Team member of the Narcotics Bureau Operation Unit)Jazz Lam - (Team member of the Narcotics Bureau Operation Unit)MC Jin Elaine Ng
Synopsis:As a Senior Inspector of the Narcotics Bureau Operation Unit, Heung Wing (Miu Kiu Wai) profoundly abhors evil. He and Wai Sai-Lok (Raymond Lam) - Senior Inspector of the Intelligence Unit have closely co-operated with each other as peer mentors, frequently solving drug trafficking cases for the Police Force. During an operation to knock down the targets, Sai-Lok discovers clues that Heung Wing is most likely the corrupt cop in a collusion conspiracy with drug dealers. Apart from launching a secret investigation into Heung Wing, Sai-Lok is also alienated from him by the evil-willed Chief Inspector of the Operation Unit - Pun Hok-Lai (Ben Wong). Having undergone various disputes against each other, the long-term brotherly relationship between SAI-LOK and HEUNG WING appears full of contradictions. On the other hand, following an investigation, Sai-Lok falls in love with a snitch – Chan Ka-Pik (Kate Tsui), who suffers from low self-esteem due to her humble beginning. Deliberately denying her affection to Sai-Lok , Ka-Pik gives up on him so that his secret admirer - Ko Hei-Suen (Ella Koon), a rookie police officer, can have the chance, leading to a subtle relationship among the three. Feeling life is so dreary, KA-PIK ultimately digs her own grave by becoming a new generation of drug dealer, involved in drug trafficking and provoking the Police Force. With intense sorrow, Sai-Lok then joins forces with Heung Wing against Ka-Pik , waging a chain of bitter battles.
Trailer:http://youtu.be/J4wBrOWOSgY

Sub Theme Song: Raymond Lam - End of Innocence (幼稚完)

Episode Previews: Episode 1 Preview:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xhRZ-BVhL8Y&feature=share&list=UUD2SNRlEjxJODlwaKx-BoRw
Episode 2 Preview: http://youtu.be/YNgsZJhXCzM
Episode 3 Preview:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p9iQpffyZQA&feature=share&list=UUD2SNRlEjxJODlwaKx-BoRw
Episode 4 Preview:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9-Nx9IJ5jb0&feature=share&list=UUD2SNRlEjxJODlwaKx-BoRw
Episode 8 Preview:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mNQPZybYLq4&feature=share&list=UUD2SNRlEjxJODlwaKx-BoRw
Episode 11 Preview:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aqUxB6pb2LI&feature=share&list=UUD2SNRlEjxJODlwaKx-BoRw
Episode 12 Preview:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s1Rfu4O-aE0&feature=share&list=UUD2SNRlEjxJODlwaKx-BoRw
Episode 13 Preview:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JLztP5Y_sSc&feature=share&list=UUD2SNRlEjxJODlwaKx-BoRw
Episode 15 Preview:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nQhaSDY6Kgg&feature=share&list=UUD2SNRlEjxJODlwaKx-BoRw
Episode 16 Preview:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=REDemHs0Kcc&feature=share&list=UUD2SNRlEjxJODlwaKx-BoRw
Episode 17 Preview:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TThah3X0x4s&feature=share&list=UUD2SNRlEjxJODlwaKx-BoRw
Episode 21 Preview:http://youtu.be/7HlxEWTR-eQ
Episode 22 Preview:http://youtu.be/04GYGeBWLbk
Episode 23 Preview:http://youtu.be/DGmgtD2EMYY
Episode 24 Preview:http://youtu.be/g3J2ykbyfBM
Episode 25 Preview:http://youtu.be/nn9l-UzLxlw
Episode 26 Preview:http://youtu.be/lN8y1HNasUI
Episode 27 Preview:http://youtu.be/_QI9_GUdGYE
Episode 28 Preview:http://youtu.be/v__1mneffVY
Episode 29 & 30 Final Preview:http://youtu.be/6UMAfEqURzc

sugarplum892 · September 19, 2012

class="ipsType_pagetitle" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; font-size: 26px; font-weight: 300; line-height: 1.3; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; color: rgb(50, 50, 50); background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "Ella Koon responds to Ron Ng's rumor coldly: "Drinking Damages the Liver"Tuesday September 18, 2012 Hong Kong
Source: Oriental Daily
Translated by: aZnangel @ http://asianuniverse.net/forums/ Raymond Lam, Kate Tsui, Ella Koon, Michael Miu and Ben Wong all attended the promotional event for TVB new series Highs and Lows. The cast participated in a tug-a-war competition. The two brave and skilled actors, Michael and Ben, came down from the third floor on a rope and when playing ball, Michael blurted out saying Kayi Cheung is the "most beautiful black porkchop'. It was an embarrassing moment for Kayi.

Ron Ng and Toby Leung were rumored while shooting for TITS2 in Sanya. As Ron's good friend, Raymond expressed he has not seen the reports, but explained on his behalf: "Toby has been calling us Big Brother for more than 10 years, don't get so sensitive. There is nothing to discuss about. (How is Ron's alcohol tolerance?) He's regular, OK. Everyone please just cut him some slack. When he sees me, he gives me hugs too."

As Ron's ex-rumored girlfriend, Ella Koon, did not have much to say about his rumor: "I don't want to comment on other people rumors. I just want the series to get high ratings. (Are you and Toby close?) We were newcomers in the same year, pretty okay. (Have you been to such parties and seen similar incidents?) I've been to Michael Miu's party before, but we don't behave like that, no matter how high we get. I never get drunk, its bad for the liver."

Highs and Lows is getting heavy attention, Kate said without holding back: "This year I only have this series, and I'm only relying on this series at the TVB Anniversary Awards. (Confidence to get TV Queen?) I'll be happy enough to get nominated. Luckily the producer is satisfied with my performance." When speaking of FaDans leaving TVB, Kate frankly expressed the pressure increases. As for the TVB Calendar is back in 2013, Kate continues to be in the group with Bosco Wong and Raymond Lam. No wonder Kate joked they look like conjoined twins. Actually, there could be a new combination 'January Stars': "In the past few years, we were on January together. I'm honored to be on January, when people open the calendar, they'll see us first. I feel very happy." Raymond expressed: "Perhaps we all debuted around the same time, and frequently collaborate, so we get put on the same month."

sugarplum892 · September 25, 2012

Possibly the 'Final' TVB series, Ella Koon Stutters: Please Don't Cut ScenesSunday September 23, 2012 Hong KongSource: MingpaoTranslated by: aZnangel @ http://asianuniverse.net/forums/

Yesterday Ella Koon, Raymond Lam, Kate Tsui, Michael Miu and the rest of the cast of TVB new series Highs and Lows attended the promotional event. Because Ella just signed a contract with Warner Music, this may be the 'end' for her on TVB. She frankly expressed TVB had always treated her well, "Today, the stage set has my picture on it and there is another promotional event on the 13th that I will be attending as well. (It was rumored you weren't on the promotional clips?) I don't know. I just finished dubbing, I still have scenes. (You were prepared to not have any?) Nope, I hope it won't be cut!" She expressed her record company will also send out someone to find out, she believes her scenes won't get cut.

When asked if she's worried this might be her 'final' TVB series? She stuttered: "I hope not. Since my debut, TVB has given me a lot of opportunities. We had pleasant collaborations and I want this to continue." When asked if its because TVB had a singer contract with her former company that she was still able to appear on TVB? She said: "I don't know, but I think the old contact ends in December. (Can still renew contact?) Anything could be resolved, Never Say Never. I have a relationship with TVB and I will face the situation positively."

Kate expressed in the series, she'll have scenes of getting gang raped and drug injections. When she did those scenes, she put in all her effort and when asked if she's trying to get the TV Queen title? She said: "If I'm nominated first!"

sugarplum892 · September 26, 2012

Michael Miu has to pay for meal, blames Raymond Lam no loyaltyTuesday September 25, 2012 Hong KongSource: Oriental DailyTranslated by: aZnangel @ http://asianuniverse.net/forums/

Michael Miu, Elaine Ng, Ben Wong, and Ella Koon had dinner together to watch the premiere of TVB new series Highs and Lows. There were two large dishes on the dinner table, each with 36 crabs, to represent their hope for 36 points TV rating. The premiere averaged 31 points, peaked at 33 points. Michael said he has confidence on the ratings, and when speaking of Raymond saying he's more Chok than him? Michael said: "He's exaggerating! How can I compare to the youngsters? They say I'm Man, that is too polite." Michael also joked Raymond has no brotherhood loyalty because he already flew over to Beijing for work, "He should pay for the meal tonight! We don't even know who's paying for the dinner tonight, if no one does, I will do it. Everyone happy!" As for Elaine shooting her first TV series, she lost weight as she was filming. She lost 15 pounds, she joked she's shrinking nonstop.

It was rumored Ella Koon and Kate Tsui, the two ex-rumored girlfriends of Ron Ng, don't get along. Ella said: "We only met after shooting this series. We had a great time working together and we can chat too! (Chat about Ron Ng together?) Rarely talk about boys. We just chat about the series, I support her for an award this year!"

Jen. · October 2, 2012

This drama looks very good haha I like the cop/crime genre =) Also, I haven't seen Ella Koon in such a long time <3 Going to look forward to her pairing with Raymond Lam. Kate's role actually looks interesting too.

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So I just watched a few episodes of this and I'm really interested with Kate's character (and her loveline with Raymond). Raymond's doing pretty good with his character too!

sugarplum892 · October 4, 2012

Source: On.ccTranslated by: aZnangel @ http://asianuniverse.net/forums/
TVB Rating Report (24/09/2012 - 30/09/2012)
DramasHighs and Lows - 雷霆掃毒 (EPS 01-05) - 29 PTS
The Last Steep Ascent - 天梯 (EPS 05-09) - 28 PTS
Notes- 'Highs and Lows': Netizens have been actively discussing the scene where Raymond Lam rescues Kate Tsui, where she was trapped in the freezing room for several ours. After undressing her and putting her into the warm bath, Raymond does CPR on her, but there was an error on the way he did it. He shouldn't have immediately undressed her, but instead submerge her into the water and then undress her. Netizens criticized that TVB had no common sense and isn't smart. Producer Lam Chi Wah expressed: "If we filmed the scene in such great detail, people won't want to watch either. Actually, the CPR principle had never changed."

sugarplum892 · October 9, 2012

Source: MingpaoTranslated by: aZnangel @ http://asianuniverse.net/forums/
TVB Rating Reports (01/10/2012 - 07/10/2012)
DramasHighs and Lows - 雷霆掃毒 (EPS 06-10) - 29 PTS
The Last Steep Ascent - 天梯 (EPS 10-14) - 29 PTS
Variety ShowsWeekly Expose - 爆足一周 (EP 01) - 17 PTS
Complaints- The Fortune Buddies (勁抽福祿壽): Fuk Luk Sau's 2011 film was broadcast Saturday night (10/6) on TVB Jade channel. The Chinese characters in the original movie title "勁" and "壽" was written in simplified Chinese and in the television broadcast, TVB left it in that form at the opening title. Audience were very upset at TVB for disrespecting Hong Kong. The Broadcasting Authority received a total of 137 complaints, displeased by the use of simplified Chinese in the opening, promotion clip, program schedule and movie poster. Some complaints were because TVB decided to broadcast a comedy film during the time of grief (referring to Lamma Island ferry accident). TVB received 52 email and 3 telephone complaints, displeased TVB showed no respect for HK culture. (Total of 192 complaints) TVB responded, expressing they had no way of changing the original works and hoped the audience understands.- Weekly Exposed (爆足一周), hosted by Eileen Cha. 14 complaints. Displeased by the poll "Do you support Leon Lai and ShuQi reconciling?", Audience felt the poll disrespected Leon and Gaile Lok's divorce. Netizens changed the show's title to "Weekly Explode of Scolds". There were also complaints on the contents of the show, that there was no evidence to backup their claims, it is misleading, violates artists' privacy, sends negative messages and not news worthy at all.- The Last Steep Ascent (天梯): 2 complaints. Displeased that TVB didn't let audience know in advance that the series was broadcasting at an earlier time.- Highs and Lows (雷霆掃毒): 1 complaint. The plot was unreasonable.

sugarplum892 · October 15, 2012

class="ipsType_pagetitle" style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 26px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 300; line-height: 1.3; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; color: rgb(50, 50, 50); background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "Is Raymond Lam TVB's 'Best Actor' in the making?It is reported that TVB's management gave the approval for Raymond Lam to win a TVB award this year

Hong Kong showbiz is buzzing with speculations on this year's acting nominations for the annual TVB awards as the year draws to a close.Raymond Lam's well-loved role as Wai Sir in current TVB hit drama, Highs and Lows, has sparked rave anticipations of him winning the "Best Actor" award this year.
It is reported that TVB will adopt a new rule for its annual awards and will introduce public voting to help decide its final outcome. With a huge fan base consisting of mainly teenage girls and housewives, Raymond is tipped as hot favorite with high hopes in winning.
Adding on to speculations, rumor has it that TVB's top management are in favor of awarding Raymond with the "Best Actor" title this year.The actor-singer recently returned to Hong Kong for Highs and Lows' promotional event despite his hectic filming schedule in Heng Dian, China.Reportedly pocketing an estimated eight-figure sum from his participation in Chinese drama, Legend of the Purple Hairpin, the 32-year-old declined to comment on his earnings and instead, hinted, "It's [my earnings are] adequate to purchase an apartment. Time to save for my wedding now."
Source

October 16, 2012

Currently watching this series. It'so ok so far. I only like Michael Miu. Man how old he is already but still looks fine in those years. And I love his acting. The two girls are very annoying though. I don't like Raymond Lam's acting that much just so-so.

October 16, 2012

I like the cast for this drama... unlike the other TVB productions that just has 1 or 2 main stars...

sugarplum892 · October 16, 2012

Source: Oriental DailyTranslated by: aZnangel @ http://asianuniverse.net/forums/
TVB Rating Reports (08/10/2012 - 14/10/2012)
Dramas:Highs and Lows - 雷霆掃毒 (EPS 11-15) - 31 PTS
The Last Steep Ascent - 天梯 (EPS 15-19) - 31 PTS
Complaints:- "Highs and Lows": 5 complaints. The plot was inconsistent with the facts and it was immoral.

October 17, 2012

sugarplum892 · October 17, 2012

class="ipsType_pagetitle" style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 26px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 300; line-height: 1.3; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; color: rgb(50, 50, 50); background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "Tavia Yeung and Kate Tsui vie for top TVB award
Both actresses are said to be in the running for top honours at the TV station's annual awards ceremony

With the year drawing to an end, speculations over the nomination list for the year-end TVB awards sees competition heat up between two hot favorite actress, Tavia Yeung and Kate Tsui.
Speculations are brewing that Raymond Lam and Tavia Yeung will be internally crowned as Best Actor and Best Actress this year. A Hong Kong entertainment magazine has also backed up the rumor and revealed a list containing this year's TVB award winners.It is known that TVB's management arranged for Tavia's upcoming drama, Silver Spoon, Sterling Shackles, to be aired closer to the date of the annual awards ceremony in order to build favorable publicity for her.
However, the impressive performance of former Miss Hong Kong, Kate Tsui in Highs and Lows, will prove to be a tough competitor for Tavia. The 33-year-old has garnered rave reviews from the public for her turn as a "drug queen" in the show.
Worried of losing out the Best Actress award to Kate, Tavia reportedly persuaded her rumored boyfriend, Him Law, to put on a front and work with her as an on-screen couple for TVB. This move is seen as an act to salvage her image after her recent alleged intimate behavior with Him in a car.Responding to accusations where she called Kate an "inexperienced, mean-looking and unpopular," artiste, Tavia, 33, replied, "I'm friends with Kate and not afraid to be compared [to Kate], but I've no time to watch her drama, thus I cannot comment on her performance."Kate, on the other hand, made light of the rumors and referred it as a "publicity stunt" that happens every year.
Source

Aziraphale · October 17, 2012

Watching this for Miu Kiu Wai, he's so hot! Have only seen two episodes so far, but liking it. Kate seems more at ease in this role than in her previous performances. Raymond isn't as natural as the wise-cracking cop, don't think comedy is his strength.

Jen. · October 18, 2012

@Aziraphale haha I actually think Raymond's doing okay. In my opinion, it's his best character ever since HOG, or at least the most decent one. I haven't liked any of his series/characters since, uh, well for a long time now. And yeahh, I agree with Kate. I was neutral towards her before but I'm starting to like her more now. She's doing pretty good and her character's background seems really interesting, a lot of depth. It would definitely be a breakthrough if she doesn't disappoint.

sugarplum892 · October 25, 2012

Kate Tsui - The War Begins: Interview on Acting Career & AwardsTuesday October 23, 2012 Hong KongSource: Oriental Sunday#776, KuangaiTVB, www.KateTsui.orgTranslated by: aZnangel @ http://asianuniverse.net/forums/

The annual TVB Anniversary Awards is approaching soon. According to insider news, the TV Queen battle is between Kate Tsui and Tavia Yeung.
This isn't Kate's first year nominated for TV Queen, but when the media and audience think she's qualified for the award, there will bound to be many gossips and rumors spreading around. Basically, the actresses who are lucky enough to be on the headlines are either first line FaDans or those seen as good actresses.
To some extent, even if the FaDan ends up losing the award, they still won the opportunity for more exposure and momentum.
Kate said honestly: "In the recent year, I haven't had too many gossips, but that means I don't have anything to do. There will only jobs when you have more news! It was rumored Tavia and I don't get along, but will that really make me popular? If so, then I don't mind the rumor!"
Many artists have said before, "It doesn't matter whether if I'm popular or not. The most important is that there is always a role for me and songs for me to sing." Do you believe this? Raymond Lam came from a wealthy background, but he's still working real hard to gain recognition from the audience.
Kate is very frank, she wants both the fame and awards. Since Highs and Lows began broadcasting, there has been a lot of positive reaction in the public and many are complimenting Kate's performance. In the series, she plays a Drug Queen, which is rarely seen in TV series. There were several beyond television-scale scenes that appeared in this series, such as Kate injecting drugs and getting gang raped. This is considered quite risky to an actress' reputation. She said, "Telling an actress to go do drugs, not everyone can accept it. Audience will either like it or won't like it."
Earlier Raymond Lam said in an interview that no other actress fits this role as much as Kate does. It is clear that Raymond is her supporter. Kate helplessly said: "Many people have been telling me the same thing within these last two or three years. Actually, it's kinda difficult on me. Every time I play such an extreme character, yes there is a lot of room for development, but I will never be liked by audience. On average, audience like to see more of the Linda Chung types, the good girls."
Tavia Yeung Cries Amazingly
It's only two months left before the TVB anniversary awards, Kate and Tavia's news and rumors have already started popping up on the headlines.
"I really enjoy being on the list because it's quite nice that people are talking about me. If you're not too stubborn about it, those fabricated news are actually beneficial to artists. I just want some noise! Every year at the awards ceremony, I'm just sitting there. If there is an opportunity for me to say a few words, I would be happy even if it was just one or two camera shots. I'm dressed so nicely for the ceremony, don't let it go to waste!"
Tavia has been in the industry for 13 years, and it's only been 8 years for Kate. Based on qualification and seniority, Kate loses to Tavia, but recently Tavia's "car shaking" news has really damaged her image. Perhaps Heaven is trying to help Kate, her chances of becoming TV Queen suddenly jumped.
"It's not calculated like that. My image had never been that good either! Before I entered the industry, I already liked watching Ah Yi (Tavia) in costume dramas because I thought she really fits with the ancient feel. I've watched her acting in the studio next door before. Wah! She was continuously doing a crying scenes for 3 takes and her tears still came out like a faucet! She's seriously amazing. I'm still training myself, my goal is to be able to control my tears."
Tears, indeed requires practice. Actually, a normal person living a happy life won't just start crying out of the blue, but as an artist, it is necessary for them to control their emotions just as if they are controlling their hands and feet.
"When I was young, my nickname was 'Crybaby Kate'. My dad was fierce, he would beat me until I stop crying. He disciplined me like I was a boy. The first few years after my debut, crying scenes gave me a headache. I remember back when I was shooting Price of Greed, we were shooting some 10 scenes a day, and I had to be crying in 5-6 of those scenes. If I couldn't cry, then I get yelled at! The staff would stand next to you and nag in your ears, 'Hey it's time to eat, are you done? Still can't cry? Are you serious!' One time, someone stood in front of me and started yelling at me, using profanity too, but I knew they were just trying to help me."
Now that Kate's older and has more experience, she can just cry when she's asked to. In Highs and Lows, she is the drug queen Chan Ka Bik, a girl coming from a pitiful background. Kate got too into character that she actually did feel down emotionally: "When I drive home after work, I would just start thinking that the lives of humans are so hard, then I start crying."
Newcomer Award Backfired
In regards to awards, it's not like Kate hasn't won one before. In 2004, she entered the industry as a four-award Miss HK winner. She truly understands that it's all based on the right timing, so she will first have to do the best on her own part. "When I was participating in Miss HK, I thought to myself, its either I don't get any award, or I get it all. You have to understand the Miss HK system, we start by signing a contract, if you get an award, then you have to stay with TVB for a year. As for the salary, it is based on how many awards you win! My first award was the sponsored, Fitness Award, if I couldn't get the other awards, then my monthly salary would have been a few thousand dollars. How will I be able to survive? I told myself, 'No that won't do, work harder!'"
The so-called hard work, is to treat yourself like a good student and the Miss HK personal assistant is your instructor. If they tell you to walk left, then you must not walk right.
"Must handle everything seriously. Attendance is taking daily, so I tried my best not to get a tardy. One time, we were suddenly given an assignment, which was to write a 200 word self-introduction. I first wrote a draft and counted exactly 200 words, no more, no less, before turning it in."
In 2007, she cut her hair really short for On the First Beat, but people heavily criticized her for looking ugly, having a swollen face and poor acting. Fortunately in 2008, she participated in Johnny To's Eye In the Sky working alongside Film Kings Simon Yam and Tony Leung. She gained recognition and won the 'Best New Performer' at the 27th Hong Kong Film Awards.
You would think Kate helped TVB win an honor, but will her colleagues really be happy for her? Sorry, people weren't waiting to congratulate her, but to give her the cold shoulder.
"Actually the experience the award brought me was greater than expected. To me, the newcomer award is given to the newcomer that had expectional performance, but it wasn't that simple. Although you gained recognition in the film circle, but back in the TV circle, people had higher expectations on you. They would say, 'You're great, won the award, why are you back here shooting TV series?' There were a lot of nasty comments behind my back. There was actually a director that once said to me, 'I believe you came back thinking you know everything and now you're not listening to what you're being told to do!'"
"My work ethics was the same as before, but people thought I turned cocky. Then later I realized after I got the award, I have to be even more modest, low-profile and look down on myself more than before."
Even if this year, Kate is a hot favorite for TV Queen, she said: "I have a shadow, I'm really afraid what happened before will happen again because there will always be people that think I don't deserve the award."

sugarplum892 · October 27, 2012

class="ipsType_pagetitle" style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 26px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 300; line-height: 1.3; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; color: rgb(50, 50, 50); background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "Audience Complains Kate Tsui's 1 Second Gang Rape SceneFriday October 26, 2012 Hong KongSource: Oriental Daily, Mingpao (images)Translated by: aZnangel @ http://asianuniverse.net/forums/

In the latest TVB series, Highs and Lows, Kate Tsui puts her Miss HK image behind her and played a tragic character. She had to play a drug addict and get gang raped by 4 men. She is now a hot favorite for the TV Queen title based on her role in this series. Last night, the infamous gang rape scene broadcasted, but it was a huge disappointment for audience. The scene was about Lee Ka Ding injecting drugs into Kate, making her lose consciousness and then four men start laughing, "When is it my turn?" In that whole scene, there was no place that allowed Kate to develop her character and the entire gang rape scene was just a few seconds. The viewers who have been watching 22 episodes of the series were very disappointed. Yesterday the OPCA received 3 complaints on the related scene.
Yesterday Kate was in Shanghai to attend an auto race event. She accepted an interview over the phone and expressed she's grateful to have everyone's attention. She said: "Don't be upset. When I was filming that scene, I gave it all I got and followed what the director told me to do. The edited version gave audience room for some imagination. After all, there are limitations on television. Actually, the message behind the whole scene is the most important. We want to promote anti-drugs and show what drugs can lead to as a consequence. So that scene just touched on it. I think it's good to leave some room for imagination. Aiya! It's not nice to see me take off my clothing either! (You just turned into a victim out of nowhere?) Didn't think about it. (Netizens praised your acting improved a lot?) I'm very happy. Well then, I'll have to drive faster in the race, hope everyone will watch until the finale!" As a result, Kate ended the race in 5th place, her time was 3 minutes 14 seconds. First place was Chin Kar Lok, 3 minutes 7 seconds.
Producer Lam Chi Wah expressed it is related to the television scale, and to take the audience's feelings into account. They didn't want the audience to feel disturbed, therefore how that scene was explained was reasonable. He said: "We didn't cut that scene, Netizens have been focused too much on the gang rape scene, that they are thinking too much. We did say before that the story will indirectly explain that the rape happened, but won't show the process. (But Fala Chen's bra-revealing scene was broadcasted!) That scene won't make people feel uncomfortable in reality." Netizens wanted a 'refund'? The producer expressed he will continue to make more good series to repay the audience.
Ella Koon responded to audience's disappointment of the gang rape, she said: "Really? Her acting is great, every one of us had a lot of room to develop the roles. That scene was suppose to promote anti-drugs. Why are the audience so psycho and want to watch gang rape?" But Ella supported Kate, "Perhaps it's an issue of television scale and editing, the scene wasn't used after all, that is a little disappointing."

sugarplum892 · October 31, 2012

class="ipsType_pagetitle" style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 26px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 300; line-height: 1.3; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; color: rgb(50, 50, 50); background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "Kate Tsui Denies the Rumors with Leon Lai & Bosco Wong
TVB series Highs and Lows starring Kate Tsui, Raymond Lam and Michael Miu has been doing very well in the TV ratings. Kate especially hosted a celebration dinner with the entire cast and crew.
Recently, Kate's gang rape scene has been getting heated response on the internet and Netizens have been actively discussing. Kate's recent rumors are also pretty shocking as well! A magazine reported that the divorced Leon Lai sparked love with Kate while working in Mainland. Another magazine reported that she hooked up with Bosco Wong, who had just fallen out of love. That day, Kate laughed off both rumors. She said she hasn't seen Leon since they collaborated in a commercial many years ago. It was also said Leon had fallen in love with women with thick lips? Kate refused to admit that she has thick lips. She laughed: "I haven't been following the news, the magazine are trying to categorize those women, I don't think I have thick lips, I really don't think so!"
As for Bosco, she said she encountered him a few days ago at the car racing competition in Shanghai. Kate said she was busy partying with her fans in Shanghai and basically had no time to be with Bosco. As for the photo published on the magazine of her hugging Bosco after winning the race? Kate said: "I hugged everyone when I won the race. They (the media) just took that one photo and published it. That's it." She revealed in the next film she's shooting, she and Bosco are going to be a pair again. Perhaps that was to prepare the start of the rumors. She is mentally prepared for that, "I can't help it. It will keep coming, and this isn't the first time. We all understand, basically there is no such thing, so I just laugh it off and move one." When asked if she had comforted Bosco after his break up? She said coldly: "Bosco, I didn't care about him, nor do is it necessary. He's a big man, he doesn't need me to care about him."
_________________________________________________________
Source: Mingpao, Oriental Daily, CSM (by wacow)Translated by: aZnangel @ http://asianuniverse.net/forums/
TVB Rating Reports (22/10/2012 - 28/10/2012)
DramasSilver Spoon Sterling Shackles - 名媛望族 (EPS 01-06) - 29 PTS (Peaking at 35 PTS)
Highs and Lows - 雷霆掃毒 (EPS 20-23) - 29 PTS
Come Home Love - 爱·回家 (EPS 114-118) - 25 PTS
(CSM Media Research: 1 point represents 64,070 viewers)
Complaints- SSSS: 32 complaints. Too many kissing and erotic scenes - morally offensive and not suitable to be shown on prime time hours; Displeased by the overuse of fur in the costumes; Plot is inconsistent with history; Too many English lines and the actors mispronounced the English words; Displeased by the colonial landscaping; Didn't like the 2HR premiere.- Highs and Lows: 14 complaints. The story is illogical and damages HK police's reputation; Displeased that the gang rape scene was cut; Displeased that the series used the gang rape scene to promote better ratings.
Responses- Damian Lau denied the 'erotic' scenes in SSSS. "Write it however they want, it’s just their own wishful thoughts!" Regarding the daring intimate scenes with Tavia, first Tavia bites Damian's lip and then seduces him to sleep with her, but there wasn't a generation gap between them. Damian said: "Actually I've done kiss scenes before, it's really nothing. We communicated before the shoot. (Awkward?) Acting is a form of artwork. I don't see it is an erotic drama. Asking me this question, is just like asking a painter of their reaction to drawing nude women."- SSSS producer (Chong Wai Kin): "The erotic scenes are suppose to convey the supremacy of men during that time period."

sugarplum892 · November 5, 2012

class="ipsType_pagetitle" Raymond Lam Saw Online Feedback Won't Miss Out on TV King

Sunday November 4, 2012 Hong Kong
Source: Oriental Daily
Translated by: aZnangel @ http://asianuniverse.net/forums/

Yesterday Raymond Lam attended the press conference held in Shenzhen for the Ernest Borel - Royal Collection new products. There were over a thousand fans that went to support Raymond, jamming both sides of the location. When Raymond appeared, the fans were out of control screaming loudly. Raymond was surrounded by the security, but fans tried hard reaching out to get close interaction with their idol. Raymond enthusiastically stopped and shook hands with fans.

As Ernest Borel's spokesman, Raymond frankly expressed he has never worn matching watches with a girlfriend because he never gave couple watches to her. Actually he has given one to his mother and younger sister. When speaking of the Highs and Lows finale last night, he laughed: "Actually I will be attending the finale event tonight (last night), but I lied to 3 Gor (Michael Miu) that I wouldn't make it, even the producer won't know that I'm going. (Do you have confidence on the ratings?) Actually I already know just reading the feedback online. I really thank you all for the support, many people are calling me by my character name now."

As the series is so popular, Raymond frankly expressed he has confidence to to become this year's TV King. "I've been nominated for many years, since I was 20 something, I was already nominated. (This year Damian Lau is your greatest competitor?) There are many strong competitors every year, I really hope I'm part of it. Currently, I'm only doing one series per year, so I really hope Happy Sir can get it. This was a very serious production. (Get TV King and Queen with Kate?) I hope so. When Kate first heard of the story, she was thinking how will people react to her Drug Queen role? How would the outcome be? I told her, I can't think of anyone else that could be more suitable for this role than you." When speaking of the year-end music awards, Raymond said: "Is it public voting? I have confidence too, public voting will be more interactive for the audience and fans. They'll be even more into it."

_______________________________________________________________________

class="ipsType_pagetitle" Ben Wong - Lofty Ambitions

Sunday November 4, 2012 Hong Kong
Source: The Sun
Translated by: aZnangel @ http://asianuniverse.net/forums/

TVB artist Ben Wong gained recognition based on his role "Ah Hoi" in 1995's long-running sitcom The Kindred Spirit. The ambitious Ben tried working elsewhere without hesitation, such as in Mainland and ATV. However, after all the switching around, he finally ended back at his 'maternal home' (TVB). In the first few years, he was pretty much getting ignored. Feeling discouraged, Ben went and complained to Virgina Lok: "You said I can't do it when you didn't even give me a chance to do it. That isn't fair to me!" It wasn't until his role as 'Spicy Ginger' (Lak Geung) in Lives of Omission when he won recognition again!

BEN: When I left TVB, I was very ambitious, I thought there was a need for me to work elsewhere and make a breakthrough. I've collaborated with many different actors from several different places, from Mainland to Taiwan to Singapore. I've filmed series for a different market. At the time once I left TVB, the first person I got to work with was golden scriptwriter Wai Ka Fai and co-starred Sean Lau and Adam Cheng. Was I feeling proud? Yes I was! You can say whatever about me, but I was very happy to be able to be in a Wai Ka Fai script! I spent a few years shooting TV series in Mainland, yes I did earn money, but I wasn't getting anywhere. Casting was not made just for you, unless you go fight for it with someone, but I didn't want to leave my hometown and be like that! HK doesn't broadcast Mainland series, so the people in HK would think you disappeared or went to ATV!

"I Have Family To Raise"

Back at TVB, I believed they never saw my performances, like I was still on probation to them. You have to endure through the process, earn that trust back and let people know that you can still withstand this! Before the 'Spicy Ginger' role, my position was sometimes high and low at other times. When you are asked to make a guest appearance, the producer will tell you, 'there is a story, and I want you to do it, but it's only three episodes.' That just means you recognize my abilities, but you don't have the courage to actually let me go do it. That's really strange. Sometimes, I'm only participating in 3 episodes, but they hold me on the schedule as if its a 20 episode series. How will I make a living then? I'm not an actor who owns a [Mercedes] Benz and have my own driver, I actually really do have to raise a family! You hold me on the schedule as if it was a 20 episode series, but just give me the money for doing 3 episodes, then that really is a setback for me.

"It's Unfair"

If you have persistence, then you will bound to gain some trust. But my persistence left me discouraged, then why don't I just leave! If I'm not working at TVB, then I can work elsewhere. However, you must insist and have faith. I just didn't know how long I had to wait! I'm rather optimistic, I would say: "Just get through it!" It wouldn't be good for me to say, "Hey if you don't use me, it's your loss!", right? I remember I told Miss Lok (Virgina Lok), you let me do it and I will show you I can do it! You didn't give me a chance to do it, and say I can't, that is unfair to me! Later, my manager at the time helped me get the 'Spicy Ginger' role and I'm really grateful. Even the scriptwriter said that I was the only one they wanted to cast this role for, they never thought of a second choice to replace me.

Profile
English name: Ben Wong
Age: 45
Debut: Joined TVB in 1989. The youth ambassador of the 15th TVB Artistes Training Class. He started off hosting children shows such as Flash Fax.
Acting Career Breakthrough: 1995-1999 The Kindred Spirit, "Yung Heung Hoi" left a deep impression on audience. 2011's Lives of Omission as Tang Kwok Ban ("Spicy Ginger"), an undercover turned triad member.

Awards: "Best Supporting Actor" @ TVB Anniversary Awards 2011

Filmography: TV Series: The Kindred Spirit, Rosy Business, Lives of Omission, Highs and Lows; Films: City Under Siege, Life Without Principle

sugarplum892 · November 7, 2012

Source: The Sun, CSM (by wacow)Translated by: aZnangel @ http://asianuniverse.net/forums/
TVB Rating Reports (29/10/2012 - 04/11/2012)
DramasHighs and Lows Finale - 雷霆掃毒大結局 (EPS 29-30) (2HRS SUNDAY) - 35 PTS (Peaking at 38 PTS)
Highs and Lows Finale Week - 雷霆扫毒结局篇 (EPS 24-28) - 30 PTS
Silver Spoon Sterling Shackles - 名媛望族 (EPS 07-11) - 29 PTS (Peaking at 31 PTS)
Come Home Love - 爱·回家 (EPS 119-123) - 26 PTS
(CSM Media Research: 1 point represents 64,070 viewers)
Complaints- Highs and Lows, 32 complaints. Last week, audience complained the plot was unreasonable, no new concepts, it was just repeating, too bloody and violent, and the ending was bad, it was too tragic. Others complained that the series damages the police's reputation, promotes drug use and the Chinese-English mix in the series was not strongly unlikeable. There were several "odd" scenes in the finale, such as Ben Wong was surrounded by over 20 police officers, but was still able to escape without a trace; Kate Tsui was tied up in the car, but she easily broke free, etc.- SSSS, 14 complaints. TVB received 5 complaints by phone and 5 by email. Audience complained that there were too many sex and smoking scenes; the screen time was distributed unevenly and the content is morally offensive. It is not suitable to broadcast during prime time; There were too many English dialogue and the pronunciations were incorrect; Some were displeased by the excessive use of real fur in the costumes. _______________________________________________________________________________
class="ipsType_pagetitle" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; font-size: 26px; font-weight: 300; line-height: 1.3; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; color: rgb(50, 50, 50); background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "Kate Tsui angered with teary eyes: Absolutely Nothing Between Bosco Wong and IMonday November 5, 2012 Hong KongSource: Mingpao, Oriental Daily (images)Translated by: aZnangel @ http://asianuniverse.net/forums/

Recently, the tabloids described Kate Tsui as a "sl*t Goddess". The report stated Kate was the main person who caused Bosco Wong and Myolie Wu's break up. Last night, Kate attended the finale celebration dinner for TVB series Highs and Lows with the other cast Raymond Lam, Michael Miu, Ben Wong and Ella Koon. The report clearly caused a great impact on her. When she mentioned about the related report, there was tears glowing in her eyes, "Now that the series is over, I hope these terrifying headlines will stop. I am indeed unhappy about this. Seriously, I want to clarify once again that there is absolutely nothing between Bosco and I. These reports does not only damage my reputation, but also affects my friendships. It is nonsense, worthless and shouldn't be happening."

Kate frankly expressed the rumor has affected her friendship: "I'm saying this for the last time, Bosco and I are unrelated. There is no such thing, we are just colleagues at work. These reports makes me feel terrible." Kate said the magazine labeled her as the 'sl*t Goddess', she honestly feels helpless: "I am indeed upset, I just feel so wronged because I never done such thing. I didn't do anything wrong, my conscience is clear."

When asked if she's afraid the report will affect her votes for TV Queen? She said: "I hope everyone won't get affected by fabricated reports. I really used my heart in the performance." Kate smiled and said when she was buying coffee, the cashier wrote her character name "Chan Ka Bik" on the coffee cup. She said: "I'm so grateful, very pleased with the results and I hope the ratings can reach near 40 points."

Raymond and Michael paid for the dinner that night. Raymond was asked about the artists in The Confidant and Silver Spoon Sterling Shackles becoming the hot favorites for anniversary awards? He said: "I'm banished to work in Hengdian, and couldn't even watch my own series until the next day. I don't have time to worry about the others." Raymond will rely on his fans to help him pull in more votes. When asked who he supports for TV Queen this year? He said: "I will support Kate. She is the only one who can do this character." When speaking of the great disappointment in Kate Tsui's gang rape scene ended up being only 1 second? Raymond said: "From my understanding, it was not 1 second. If we get the Best Series award, I will tell the director to make a Director's Cut for the series!"

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[Hong Kong TVB Drama 2012] Highs and Lows 雷霆掃毒

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