Panda Plan is returning for a sequel, and Jackie Chan is ready to kick up more hijinks protecting Hu Hu from a lost civilization that believes this creature can save them from disaster. Thus begins Panda Plan 2: The Magical Tribe. The film hits theatres March 13, 2026, and pandemonium is sure to ensue. Between more martial arts chaos and perhaps a message nestled underneath, fans of this charming partnership between man and animal should be pleased.
As for how many years have elapsed since the last film, it’s safe to say not much time has passed. Chan is still playing a fictionalized version of himself, once again recruited to safeguard this massive, cute, and cuddly panda. My review of the first film can be read here. This latest instalment hints at a more Indiana Jones-styled adventure. Although CGI is required to deliver some of the panda’s performances, that’s the only real suspension of disbelief needed.
For collectors, cinephiles, and nostalgic gift-givers, Shout! Studios continues to deliver premium releases that turn movie nights into an art form. In what makes this year special for this top Asian picks is the Chinese Ghost Story collection on this list. Not only is it a huge upgrade from prior releases, but it made number one in my gift giving guide.
This quintessential series that launched the “heroic bloodshed” genre in Hong Kong cinema is getting a massive 4K treatment, and there’s seven discs in total to make this film saga soar. It’s a John Woo and Tsui Hark produced film, and if that’s not enough to set the stage about two brothers trying to stay together—despite living in opposite worlds. One is a cop, and the other a Triad thug trying to go straight. This saga also made Chow Yun-Fat an international superstar. Different cuts are offered.
This newly remastered Hong Kong Cinema Classics collection revives one of the most beloved supernatural sagas ever filmed. Each entry has been 4K-scanned from the original negatives with new subtitles and restored colour. The box-set format turns this romantic fantasy trilogy into an essential collector’s centrepiece.
John Woo’s ballistic masterpiece explodes back onto shelves in a deluxe multi-disc edition. Featuring a brand-new 4K restoration and bonus features on the art of Hong Kong action, it’s a perfect showcase gift for anyone who still believes in practical stunts and cinematic bravado.
Among the icons of Hong Kong action cinema, few stars shine as brightly as Jet Li. Renowned for his graceful and fluid fighting style, Li’s illustrious filmography has established him as an international superstar.
This colossal animation library brings together Miyazaki and Takahata’s timeless works. The bundle’s unified design and sharp HD masters make it an ideal gift for families, collectors, or anyone seeking the warmth of hand-drawn magic through winter nights.
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The love for China’s greatest crime buster from the feudal age is strong, and while he’s better known as Di Renjie (狄仁傑), audiences worldwide better know him as Detective Dee. Although some of the original tales got translated over, that hasn’t stopped others from bringing life to this 7th century magistrate. And as for why he got a slight change in occupation, I suspect the new role rolls off the tongue better, and what he does sounds more intriguing.