Skin Trade Movie Review

Above: New poster for Skin Trade.


Disclosure: I do not work for the production and was provided a screener to view the film and special permission from publicity department of Magnolia Pictures to post this early review, specifically for those attending the Megacon Convention in Orlando on Saturday April 11th, as Ron Perlman will be in attendance, for info go to www.megaconvention.com. Exclusive live shout out from Celina Jade on the press in Thailand for Skin Trade! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FqARRhjUAGU

After reading this review, I invite all of my readers to check out exclusive posts on Dan's Movie Report related to Skin Trade: Celina Jade Interview: http://dansmoviereport.blogspot.com/2014/07/actress-celina-jade-interview-exclusive.html
Exclusive Photo and video posts: http://dansmoviereport.blogspot.com/2015/03/skin-trade-exclusive-video-and-photos.html
http://www.dansmoviereport.blogspot.com/2014/08/skin-trade-in-theaters-2015-exclusive.html

Update: Auction to support cause against human trafficking! Win Tickets to the premiere of 'Skin Trade' with the CAST! http://www.bluecause.com/auction/attend-the-skin-trade-premiere-with-dolph-lundgren/ 

In my two decades of writing about an reviewing movies, this has been the first time, I have been waiting for a film in this way. I heard about the Skin Trade, almost two years ago, and as soon as filming commenced for Skin Trade I was actually amazed at the talent assembled on such a production. 'Skin Trade', I am happy to report, not only did 'Skin Trade' meet my lofty expectations, it exceeded them. After meeting Celina Jade at last year's Florida Supercon, when she described in detail about the film in our interview, I must say my interest was even higher. Check out her detailed interview!

Due to the fact I am reviewing this film a couple of weeks prior to release, I refuse to reveal important plot details or spoil it in any way. Nothing makes me angrier than when a reviewer who has early access to a film has to spoil it by revealing important plot points, and characters who have dual roles, like turning from good guy to bad guy, or bad to good. that said, Skin Trade, is a detail oriented story, violent, dangerous, but with heart and emotion.

Above Photo: (C) 2015 Magnolia Pictures, Tony Jaa and Dolph go head to head in 'Skin Trade'!


Skin Trade opens rather innocently, but things are not what they seem. Innocence turns quickly to torture violence and pain. 'Skin Trade' never glamorizes the horrible multi-billion dollar industry, the film blasts viewers with hard realities of seedy dive bars, box car shipyards as transportation, there is no luxury condo, no fast cars, or anything slick and beautiful that makes the viewer thing this is only a movie. 'Skin Trade' transports the viewer into the reality of the Ron Perlman aka Viktor Dragovic and his sons controlling the industry on a variety of fronts.

Above Photo: (C) 2014 Mike Selby (A Dan's Movie Report exclusive) Sweet and innocent Celina Jade as Min, trapped by the evil Viktor Dragovic (Ron Perlman)  

Things are not what they seem, every character in the film has a "second side" whether it be turning bad to good, good to bad or sneaking around playing both sides. Assembling a cast of action stars is very tricky, as screen time and dialogue in a 97 minute film is at a premium. Director Ekachai Uekrongtham not only does this, but allows each actor to display their particular talents in a way to highlight their characters feelings. Everyone of the main actors has an action background, and can fight. Ahh but who to let fight, who to lead, and who to play the victim? That is the question. Rather than spoiling it I will say, the film does have amazing fight scenes, but these are all set up by a story and yes there is a Dolph Vs Tony, and MJW vs Tony sequence, but these are not just ok, let us throw a fight in there, at the time, there characters actually need to prove a point, and with these three, the points are backed up with kicks, fists, and elbows!



'Skin Trade' makes no apologies, it is a hard 'R' rated film, leave the kids in another room, or at home if you go to the theater May 8th to watch. It is super violent, and has images that will last in your mind long after the credits role. The harsh reality of the human trafficking business is on full display in one scene I will not spoil, but trust me, this is not glamorized violence, it really happens.

'Skin Trade' is expertly shot, the lighting, sound, and action are all a solid fit for this type of film. There is a variety of settings in the film, and each setting is detailed and at times becomes it's own character. Many times films forget about what is in the background in a scene is so important, everything from the placement of a lamp, or couch in an inside scene to the look of an outdoor market in a chase scene. 'Skin Trade' nails it, the streets of Thailand seethe with life, and are shown in blistering detail. 

Above Photo: (C) 2015 Magnolia Pictures, used for promotion only, Dan's Movie Report Celina Jade and Tony Jaa share a tender moment in Skin Trade!


There are touching moments in skin trade, especially between Celina Jade's character Min and Tony Jaa's character Tony. Tony Jaa had never acted in a soft romantic scene before, and obviously the first time anyone tries a new genre it is tough, Celina, however not only worked hard with him, her kind soul made him releaxed and comfortable, and it shows on screen. Western audiences are ready for Tony, and Skin Trade delivers him! In addition, special mention also goes to Tasya Teles and her portrayal of Rosa Cassidy, she added a human side to Dolphs Nick Cassidy role, she displayed genuine love, and depth to the film. The human side of 'Skin Trade' allows the audience to feel the pain when something happens to the characters.

Special props go to Celina Jade for allowing herself to not be in control of her destiny in 'Skin Trade'. I will not spoil her character, but 'Min' is not 'Shado' and not 'Hiu Wor' from 'Legendary Assassin' she is more vulnerable, but with an honest perseverance that is rather amazing to watch.

Above Photo: Ron Perlman as Viktor Dragovic (C) 2014 Mike Selby, A Dan's Movie Report Exclusive! Used for promotion only.


Actually all of the actors are perfect for their roles. Michael Jai White, plays Reed, a government agent, with his own agenda, his acing skills have caught up to his fighting skills, and I enjoyed his complex character Reed, and the emotions he had to deal with. Dolph is amazing as well, Nick Cassidy, is a thought provoking man with a message and depth. Cassidy has to go through tragedy to fulfil his destiny.

Very slight imperfections, the running time, although a standard 97 minutes feels a bit truncated. Even five to seven minutes more would have been great. The sheer amount of main characters, made me want each one to have more screen time. Obviously much more material was shot then is in the film and I am sure that once the Blu-Ray comes out  more will come out. The screener I saw was a bit dark, perhaps due to my own equipment, but I am sure once the final copy comes out, it will be amazing. These are very minor issues and do not take away in the least from this amazing film 

Overall, 'Skin Trade' has repeat viewing strength, obviously I recommend this film to be purchased for home viewing and it sheds some light about the human trafficking industry. I rate 'Skin Trade' a true masterpiece in film, and give it a 9.5 out of 10, Negotiation, OVER!.

Keep reading Dan's Movie Report for more 'Skin Trade' exclusives coming later in 2015 including new interviews, and contests!

Donate to end human trafficking! 

SKIN TRADE is a fictional movie, but human trafficking is very real. I’m an ambassador of CAST Los Angeles, Coalition to Abolish Slavery and Trafficking, and I’m starting a campaign to help them in their fight.
Help me support CAST by donating $1, $5, or $25, and make a tremendous impact in helping survivors of human trafficking.
Text DOLPH to 41444 (U.S. only) or follow this link: http://igfn.us/f/ezu/n (Worldwide)

For more info on the film kick your browsers over to the official Facebook page @ https://www.facebook.com/skintradefilm?fref=ts
Magnet:  http://www.magnetreleasing.com/skintrade/
Magnolia Pictures: http://www.magpictures.com/

Jasi Cotton Lanier Interview (Exclusive) (C) 2015 Dan's Movie Report

Greetings my esteemed readers, today we present an exclusive interview, with the talented and versatile Jasi Lanier. Jasi has two decades experience in the film and TV world. She shares her experiences on her various projects past and present, and her thoughts on the film industry. on the #1 independent home for exclusive content, Dan's Movie Report! Enough of my moronic rambling, Jasi, breathe some fire on my readers! HAHAHA! Chat about your childhood, how early on did you realize you wanted to be in film? I actually went to school for production. I didn’t really have aspirations to be in front of the camera that happened by accident when I was asked by a friend to be in his movie called 'Freakshow' starring Gunnar Hanson and Veronica Carslon.   That is a cool path you chose, let us travel back to your early days, Chat about working with Lloyd and Troma films on films like Terror Firmer. Also what life lessons did you learn from the performance?   Troma was fun. I was a fan so it was fun to be a Tromette and do bit parts in films and appearances.     Chat about being a performer, fire eater and other outside film accomplishments.   I started fire eating when I was 23 doing burlesque. I saw a beautiful dancer do it and had to learn so much of what I do now  ( aerial , contortion, stilts, jam skating, dirt-biking) came from that mentality, Seeing something that I wanted to try and just doing it.   Curious as to your perspective of the film industry now, I noticed you are basically living and working in the South and not living in Hollywood, do you feel the industry is changing and more opportunities lie outside of Hollywood?   I think the film business is global now. So many movies are made in Canada, Europe,  India, Asia, and all over the United States. The days of Hollywood being the mecca are gone, with states and Canada having incentives, other countries being more inexpensive as well. I love it. I get to travel more now for work and like that I can make my main base in the South close to my family. I think what you say is so important, as many people in the film industry need to realize, that it is not as important where you live because if you have the ability, and connections, you will get work, and get to travel! Recently I saw you were working as Stunt Coordinator on a few films, chat about the responsibility and events that lead up to you transitioning to a supervisory role on some of the projects like The Adventures of Paula Peril.   In the last couple of years, I have been lucky enough to coordinate a few features and do small stunt acting roles, including on Sons of Liberty and The Adventures of Paula Peril. I am set to do the same in the Paula Peril sequel and Scifi/Action movie Adam 8 starring Dean Cain. I enjoy helping create the action for the director and producers. There is a lot of responsibility involved including making their vision come to the screen, keeping your actors and crew safe, hiring the right performers and being able to creative problem solve throughout the process and under pressure. I really enjoying managing my team and the chance to be creative. We started previz on the Paula Peril Sequel  and training the actresses.I look forward to help creating some awesome fights and action sequences.     Discuss your perspective of female stunt performers in general. Do you feel there still is a bit of discrimination in the industry. I am asking this as there are very few female coordinators, but so many stunt women working. Is there a glass ceiling waiting to be shattered?   It is tough for women. We are almost half of the performers now and only get about 10% of the jobs at best. We have so much more to accomplish as performers and coordinators. We definitely need more opportunities to shine and be mentored, but we must also rise to the occasion. I started shooting and editing previz so I could be more of an asset on set, I know girls working hard to get their driving skills super strong or learning rigging. Women showing exceptional talent, drive and who have the right attitude will be given those opportunities. It wont be easy but for those of us who are passionate about this profession,  all the hard work is worth it.   I fully agree, especially with so many action oriented films with woman released, would be nice to see more women in supervisory positions. Speaking of stunt work, and the training needed, what is a typical weekly routine to keep yourself in shape?   I usually train 15-25 hours a week, Kungfu, Filipino Martial Arts, Tae Kwon Do, etc, train and shoot fight choreography, aerial, contortion ( I am a big believer in training flexibility and stretching.) , also depending on weather, I get on my dirt-bike, ride horses, take my slide car out.   Great, keep yourself flexible and ready for action. You have worked on dozens of films, do you have a favorite film that you like to watch over and over again? How about a favorite stunt you performed for a film?   I don’t know if I have one stunt that is my favorite that I have done so far. I have favorite movies to watch but they vary not just action, movies like 'The Big Lebowski', 'Big Trouble in Little China', 'Dirty Love', 'Perfume', 'Ghost Dog', 'Shawshank Redemption', 'Fight Club', 'Salt', 'Lucky Number Slevin'… etc   Jasi, chat about people you would like to work with that you have not had the opportunity to.   I would love to work with Chloe Bruce (She is my kicking inspiration), Heidi Moneymaker , Monique Ganderton, and Zoe Bell. All amazing fight girls. I have serious respect for these women. It would be very dreamy to work with them even if it was for a movie fight.   In ten years, Jasi is A) Stunt Coordinating, B) Retired, C) Acting D) Not sure.   In ten years, I hope to continue coordinated small projects, be performing as a stunt woman and action actress on movies and television. My biggest inspiration in this business is Sandy Gimpel (truly a bad-ass and beautiful woman) she is in her 70s, still performing, coordinating and acting. She can slide car 360, take a tackle to the ground and still does cardio kickboxing almost everyday she isnt working.My goal is to be like her. Jasi, thanks for taking the time to conduct this interview. Watch for more exclusives from Jasi only on Dan's Movie Report! Check out Jasi's official site, Facebook, and IMDB pages for more info: www.jasilanier.com  https://www.facebook.com/pages/Jasi-Lanier/158200157594046?fref=ts  http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0584482/?ref_=sr_1 Jasi Fire Eating video:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0l6reTae8Xw Twitter: https://twitter.com/JasiLanier

Furious 7 Movie Review

Above Pic: Promo Poster for Furious 7, used for promotional use.


Whoa, I know I usually stick to reviewing indie and lower budget films, but I must make and exception for Furious Seven. Actually in the title screen they spell out the word seven in a cool way, so I decided to keep it!  Sadly Paul Walker did not see the completion, but the movie had a well publicized send off for him, which I will not spoil.

In fact this is a "micro review" just a few short thoughts on this installment and the entire series. Furious Seven marks and effective "end" of the series. Obviously, it will continue, there is just too much money t be made.

In 'Furious Seven' there is so much action, copious car chases, but very little in the way of actual racing. The series has evolved into a crime drama, rather than a racing film. This is not a bad thing by any stretch, of course I think the new films will continue this trend. Paul Walker, as an original cast member is gone, what will happen to the franchise, which direction will it go?

They seemed in 'Furious Seven' to focus the attention on Vin Diesel and Michelle Rodriguez, of course Paul Walker had a very important role, but I feel they are shifting the franchise. Another oddity, not to spoil the details was the role of "The Rock" was a glorified cameo, I am quite surprised that he was not pushed into the spotlight more, as eventually when an 8th film is made, he is going to be needed, as he puts it on Saturday Night Live "Franchise Viagra!"

Back to the film and since I saw a very early showing on Thursday, I will not spoil anything. The film is full of action fighting, drama, and a real fine Paul Walker tribute. It is a full 137 minute film, but Furious Seven flowed like gasoline on a hill of fire. It was combustible, drones, bombs, 3 million dollar cars and a very amazing action sequence with Tony Jaa, on a bus! Tony Jaa as Celina Jade told me "literally flies", over stuff, suspends in air etc. His work is gravity defying material!

 Of course watching the well publicized fight between Rhonda Rousey and the lovely, and powerful Heidi Moneymaker https://www.facebook.com/officialheidimoneymaker?fref=nf  doubling Michelle Rodriguez is worth the price of admission and as much as you may have seen it on Youtube on the small screen, it is amazing to behold on the big screen!

Ok that is it, no spoilers! Bottom line it is a solid watch in the theater, and own when on DVD! 'Furious Seven' rates and 8 out of 10.

Skin Traffik Movie Review

Above Picture: IMDB Poster for 'Skin Traffik' (C) 2015 Used for promotional info only



2015 is the year of the human trafficking film parade, a bit later this month comes 'Skin Trade', check my numerous features on that film. Being honest, I was not going to review Skin Traffik, I had rather high expectations for the film, with the star power of Mickey Rourke, Daryl Hannah, and Michael Madson, and of course the master of action, Gary Daniels.

Sadly this Ara Paiaya  project lacked the heart and attention to action and subtle detail important in a film dealing with the sordid human trafficking subject. I did not feel a connection to the characters, there was little to no emotion in most scenes, and such. Gary Daniels is an excellent fighter, sadly again the editing and filming is just not up to par to display his talents. Rather than go into a long dissertation
I will point out the two bright spots in the film for me as to emphasize on the positive, Actors Ron Smoorenburg and  Dominique Swain

Ron played a bastard pimp named Sergei. Not only did he show intensity and anger, he had subtle emotions. Ron is an excellent action guy and I hope to see more of him in more films. I enjoyed his character and he did his job, I wanted to hate him! At the end of this review there is a link to his exclusive interview.

Dominique plays a Anna Peel, and she gets roughed up by Ron, in fact some of the best scenes in 'Skin Traffik' are the two of them together.  She has an expressive face, and her emotions and sense of urgency were important in 'Skin Traffik', I feel if the rest of the cast put as much effort into the film it may have been a bit better..

Ara had some solid ideas, would have been better to have help on the editing, filming, stunt co ordinating etc,,,, Often when you try to do too many jobs on one film, often the film suffers, Ara did not need star power, and the money would have been better spent on additional behind the scenes talent  on 'Skin Traffik'.

Sadly I cannot recommend this film, and give it a 3 out of 10.  

For more info on the film go to IMDB @  http://www.imdb.com/title/tt3120960/

Check out my interview with Ron @  http://dansmoviereport.blogspot.com/2014/07/actor-ron-smoorenburg-interview.html