http://www.spcnet.tv

In recent years, the rise of cable TV has upped the ante in the already highly competitive Asian movie industry. Of course, competition is good for the consumer and viewers have benefited from the broader choice of programming as well as the generally higher standard of productions. That said, there is a negative side: in the rush to provide product, taste and passion often suffer. Which is why Spcnet.tv is a very handy tool. Launched in 1999, initially this non-commercial website offered, in the main, reviews of the wuxia genre (Chinese chivalry). Since then, it has expanded to include reviews of just about every type of program available, plus info on upcoming movies, film essays, movie theme song videos and English translations of martial arts' novels (Jin Yong, Gu Long, etc.). Interaction is made possible with a discussion board, and wannabe writers can share their works at the "The Story Vault". In sum, there's enough material on this website to keep you warm in your cocoon all winter.

(c) that's Shanghai Magazine
Chief editor: Steven Crane
December 2005 issue