Gambling at the Star Awards Casino - and the winner is...

The time has finally come to celebrate the hard work of fellow artistes, both young and old, in the past year. Nominated or not is not the matter; the ceremony is held to show appreciation to all artistes who have put their best in each and every production. The annual ceremony celebrates the excellence of each artistes' performance during the past year for the 21st time; and this will be its final showdown in Caldecott Broadcasting Center before Mediacorp's big migration.

With the ceremony being held at its highest form, who will be bringing back the top accolades of the Star Awards 2015? Toggle has placed their bets and so it's my turn, so who would win the gamble at the end of the day? Well, we will have to wait and see...

I have with me RM 1000 (RM stands from Malaysian Ringgit, my local currency), and now I am walking towards the Star Awards Casino to place my bet on 10 different boards. (I will bet RM100 for each category) How much would I fare in the lottery which will be announced tomorrow night? Well, I for one hope I wouldn't come back empty handed, really. This casino has given me enough surprises in the past few years, I wouldn't be surprised if they are planning for another surprise party this year. Oh well, at least we didn't see any awards having three winners this time - seems more legit this year, at least in my opinion.

BEST ACTOR 最佳男主角

RM 50 - Shaun Chen as Zhang Jia (The Journey: Tumultuous Times) 

Shaun Chen is like the male version of Jeanette Aw; they both went through dog days where their acting was badly criticised, to the extent that they don't seem to have any talent at all. And now, both of them are finally showing their true colours to the audiences - the colour of being a great actor.

Shaun went through quite a lot I would say. His career was pretty much flat before 2013. He had his chances of taking on lead roles but his efforts were somewhat in vain as no one is there to see his improvement. However, things are changing this year; it seems to me that 2015 is Shaun's year. His portrayal as a kind-hearted and loyal hooligan impressed viewers all around Singapore and Malaysia. This is the first time where he successfully moulded a character of his own, with no one else's shadow beneath it. I can say that Zhang Jia is one of Shaun's breakthrough roles besides Lian Wending from Blessings. It was indeed a pity Jeanette didn't manage to garner this recognition last year despite her excellent performance in The Dream Makers, so I do hope Shaun can take back this award this time round.

RM 50 - Thomas Ong as Zhao Yaozong (Three Wishes)

Thomas Ong, a man who strives in his work but yet his hard work was never seen. If I were to use one word to describe him, I would say...underrated. He had the skills, he had the passion, but what he is lacking of, is a chance, a chance to shine in front of the viewers. His characters were usually dull and flat, there was nothing much for him to exercise his acting skills. Finally, his chance came; and undoubted, he nailed it. I really have nothing much to comment, all I have for him is praises. He indeed deserves the highest commendation of the performance category with his solid and convincing performance as a father who is prepared to do whatever it takes for the best of his children.

BEST ACTRESS 最佳女主角

RM 70 - Rui En as Qiu Xueqing (Against the Tide)

This was Rui En's first attempt on a villainous role, and I have to say, she has done a good job there. Xueqing seems like another ordinary role at the start, besides that fact she has these delusions about taking away the life of others of course. However, when the show reaches its climax, I would never forget that evil glance Xueqing has when her body was taken over by the evil side of her. That moment, I knew that glance was looking towards the Best Actress trophy. Well, you got it Rui En, you got it. 

RM 30 - Yvonne Lim as Zheng Yongyi (World at Your Feet)

Remember when I previously written about the predicted nominations of the Star Awards? I predicted Jeanette Aw to be in, for her portrayal as Hong Minghui from The Journey: Tumultuous Times. Her performance was just right; not too spicy and not to sweet - but it has failed to win the judge's heart. If not she would be my dark horse of this category.

However, this new mother has scored a chance to run for this prestigious award. It was only her third time running and she won it once back in 2007. I never expected her to be in; not because she didn't ace her character, but I thought her character was more like a supporting than a lead. That being said, her portrayal has a mother of two kids was incredible. It was real and emotional. She managed to handle the motherly love aspect in the best manner. And mind you, she has yet to be a mother back then. While the rest of the actresses have much to improve, I think she stand a chance if Rui En didn't win. After all, the judges love simpleton characters - just like how Chen Li Ping won over Ann Kok and Jeanette Aw in 2010 for her drama The Reunion Dinner.

BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR 最佳男配角

RM 100 - Chen Hanwei as Hu Weiren (The Journey: Tumultuous Times)

Do I have to say anymore? Hello people, it's Chen Hanwei we are talking about! Chen Hanwei is one of the few actors and actresses which is able to make every role he took on seems like it was tailor made for him. But obviously, it wasn't. He was his own magician behind the curtains. He never fails to bring each of his characters alive - as though that character was not fictitious. Hu Weiren was one of them. He started off has a betrayer and he ended up a madman. Do you see any loopholes in the change? Of course not! Why? Because he made the change looked so natural. Besides, who would forget his 暗号 (secret password in Mandarin)? 

BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS最佳女配角

RM 80 - Joanne Peh as Zhang Huiniang (The Journey: Tumultuous Times)

She won 2 Best Actress trophies and both were actually very surprising. Though the first one was actually more deserving than the 2nd, where she won the accolade by playing a pampered and sassy young lady who yearns for a rich husband. Joanne might have won her 2nd Best Actress trophy by luck in 2012, where Ah Jie Zoe Tay and Ann Kok were tipped to be winners, but this year, she might finally win this Best Supporting Actress trophy just because she deserves it.

She had only four episodes and she started off so bland that you might think she is just there just because she is part of the first installment of The Journey series. But never would I forget the moment she shouted in hatred and fright when she ran towards the alley after she got raped in the Japanese kempeitai. Though the scene where she struggles on bed seems more like she is suffering from a stroke than being raped, but I think her acting was convincing overall. Plus, she had experience acting a rape victim in The Little Nyonya, and won an accolade for it, so this was actually a piece of cake to her.

RM 20 - Carrie Wong as Bai Lanxiang (The Journey: Tumultuous Times)

Carrie is the fresh face of the local entertainment industry. This was only her first year and yet she managed to garner a spot to run for this category. For that reason itself, she deserves a mention. I for one thinks that her portrayal as Di Yao and Scarlet was better than her portrayal as Bai Lanxiang, but I think she stands a small chance in winning this trophy. If the judges want her to be the next Fann Wong, then I have no doubt that this trophy would be hers. (Fann Wong won Best Newcomer and Best Actress in her first year of acting, and has never won any since then. Cursed maybe?)

BEST NEWCOMER 最佳新人

RM 80 - Carrie Wong (Against the Tide, The Journey; Tumultuous Times, SCRUM)

Maybe she loses out in the Best Supporting Actress category, but she definitely stands out in this category. She has shown versatility in her respective roles as her roles are mostly not as simple as people think. One acts like a tomboy and later got raped; the other was a lady but suffered from Dissociative Identity Disorder with an evil side. How's that for a newbie? Great, ain't she? That's why she deserves to win.

RM 20 - Aloysius Pang (World at Your Feet, Against the Tide)

Aloysius was a child actor and his acting impressed me since he was a child. He did well in his respective characters as well and no doubt that both his characters were vastly different. But, do note that his character is not as challenging has Carrie's as Carrie's characters both have a different dimension respectively.

BEST DRAMA 最佳戏剧

RM 100 - The Journey: Tumultuous Times

Whether it is the wins or the nominations, this drama is one of the best dramas I have seen in the past year besides Three Wishes. The reason why it will win over Three Wishes you ask? Simple - the background, the story, the cast, the theme song, and everything else. Three Wishes is equally good but from the story and setting (time and place) especially, it has to take a step back. Adding on the total nominations and possible wins, this drama is definitely the Best Drama in 2015

As you know, I am Malaysian. I don't get to watch all the variety shows here. I have my sources but to download all of them, it will take lots of my time and space. So I am speaking from a view of pieces of episodes and some reviews of the show.

BEST VARIETY SHOW HOST 最佳综艺节目主持人 

RM 60 - Pornsak (Joy Truck 2)

Joy Truck 2, the sequel to Joy Truck brings viewers to the deepest part of the unfortunates in Singapore. With such saddening stories week after week, Pornsak managed to host the programme with such confidence and closeness. From his words, you can feel that he understands the sufferers. And yet, with many actresses crying throughout the show, he managed to hold his tears back and host with the right and balanced emotions. Overall, his hosting indeed was the plus point of the show.

RM 40 - Quan Yifong (Black Rose 2)

I think I need not say more about Miss Quan here. Black Rose 2 was one of the variety shows in which I watched from top to end. Her role play of different character not only amuses me, it also made me more focused onto what is discussed within the show. Not to mention, her impersonation was the most realistic one among the rest. No wonder she stands out among the others of being the only one nominated from this show. Also, she garnered a nomination in Asian TV Awards last year in the Best Performance in a Comedy for this show as well.

BEST VARIETY SHOW 最佳综艺节目

RM 50 - Food Source 4

'Nuff said, I think this show is totally underrated. From my records, even though its previous seasons managed to top the viewership charts, they failed to become the Best Variety Show. Truthfully speaking, I not only enjoy the show (for the food), I also love the facts portrayed through the show. Not to mention, this show goes around the world just to trace the source of specific food - how is that easy? The producers have to find sponsors and the writers have to research on the food facts - it was definitely not easy overall.

RM 50 - Joy Truck 2

The show goes around Singapore to showcase the lives of the unfortunate in Singapore. Their goal is to bring Joy to these people and their hopes are that citizens will help them by donating or maybe giving them some physical and mental support. That being said, I think this show deserves recognition as it is there for a great meaning.

BEST INFO-ED PROGRAMME HOST 最佳资讯节目主持人

RM 60 - Quan Yifong (Where to Stay)

Here you are again, Miss Quan. Why is it her? She shows her truest self when hosting this show. What you see is truly the Quan Yi Fong you would see everywhere. She never tries to hide her true self - she will show both her good and bad sides no doubt. She laughs at the name of the chief villager - it's just so her! And because of that, she make things a little more entertaining than usual. And she gets along very well with her host family as though she was part of them. And remember the part she tried to do a deed by putting away her own trash? Funny, but that's her - truly her. That's why she is here. Period.

RM 40 - Ben Yeo (Meet My Family 2)

Okay, I have to speak the truth; I never had the chance to see Meet My Family 2. But from my research, Meet My Family is a show where the host visits different families in Singapore and tries to uncover the art of communication between parents and children. Ben has always known to be the children's favourite so I believe he must have done well here.

BEST INFO-ED PROGRAMME 最佳资讯节目

RM 50 - Where to Stay

Why is it a great show? With only a few minutes of the first episode, my eyes were glued to the screen. Why? This is because showcases the lives of villages and outskirts located overseas as well as lives of the cities overseas. In each episode, viewers get to compare the different between the said village life and the said city life. You get know learn both about city lifestyle and village lifestyle one shot, and with the comparison, you would learn how to appreciate what you have back home. That's why it  was a great show!

RM 50 - A Taste of History

As a Malaysian, I have to thank this show for showcasing the best of Singaporean food as well as their respective origins. Learning the stories behind certain areas in Singapore, such as Katong, Teochew Street and so on, really makes me interested to learn more about Singaporean history. Besides that, this show is an ultimate food and street guide for tourists visiting Singapore, so I definitely have to place my bet on this.

So my bet on the Star Awards Show 2 tomorrow! What about yours?

Stay tuned to Star Awards 2015 Show 2 tomorrow (26 April 2015) at 5:30 P.M for the Walk of Fame and 7:00 P.M for the Awards Show. and 10:30 P.M for the Post Show Party

Programme schedule:

Star Awards 2015 – Show 2
Date: 26 April 2015 (Sunday)

Walk of Fame:
Time: 5pm to 6.30pm (LIVE on Singapore Channel 8)
Ceremony:
Time: 7 to 10pm (LIVE on Singapore Channel 8 and Malaysia Astro AEC HD)
Post Show Party:
Time: 10.30pm to 11.30pm (LIVE on Singapore Channel 8)

Judgement Day 1: Star Awards 2015 - Who should be nominated?

And finally, it's 2015. As a Singaporean drama maniac, I just cannot wait much longer until the last two weeks of April! Why? Duh, the STAR AWARDS is in April! :P

The Star Awards, is an annual award ceremony where actors, actresses and people behind-the scenes got recognised for the hard work. As drama fans, we show great support to the Awards not just to support our favourite actor/actress, it is also to show appreciation to all individuals who contributed in the dramas and variety shows aired in the past year.

Okay, long story cut short, if you are a fan of the page my sister and I administer (Singaporean Drama Fan Club), you would have known what both of us were doing the night before. Well anyway, in case you don't know, yesterday was "Judgement Day Round 1" - not for you! but for the actors and actresses in Mediacorp.

I took some time to list down all the eligible (those who have contracts under Mediacorp) actors and actresses and the respective dramas they played in. 

Here's the list! 

And last night, at about 11:30 p.m.-ish, we started the judging process. We were to rank candidates from each category from 10 to 1 (10 for the best of course, 1 for the last of the 10th but not the worst). In short, each of us will only pick 10 candidates from the respective categories and rank them. Given the long list of candidates, of course those who have flatter roles and weaker or so-so performance would be left out from the top 10.

Here we have 5 animal judges and my sister with her face hidden so that we won't get killed after the results are released xD

After ranking them, both of our ranks will be added and the Top 5 of each categories are listed down. That marks the end of Round 1 of Judging. Round 2 will come soon - after we review some of the performances by the actors and actresses.

Yes, we both are fans of Jeanette but we love all actors and actresses as well. So, we have made a promise to remain unbiased throughout the judging process. I can give you my word, but my sister...ehh..not so sure about that. :P

Okay, the "short story" is getting long now, so I am gonna give you what you guys are waiting for - the Drama Maniacs' Star Awards 2015 nominees!

(The following lists are arranged in the from the highest total score (20%) to the lowest, then by alphabetical order if scores are tied.)

All scores are shown to show that we are unbiased and fair. Also to prevent any fan wars from those which large fan bases.

*Second nominations are to be ignored, hence why there were 6 nominees.

BEST ACTOR

Shaun Chen as Zhang Jia / Hu Jia (The Journey: Tumultuous Times) [20%]

Thomas Ong as Zhao Yaozong (Three Wishes) [18%]

Andie Chen as Hong Dangyong (The Journey: Tumultuous Times) [14%]

Shaun Chen as Lian Wending (Blessings) [14%]*

Elvin Ng as Wu Weixiong (World At Your Feet) [12%]

Chen Hanwei as Lian Daxi (Blessings) [10%]

BEST ACTRESS

Jeanette Aw as Hong Minghui (The Journey: Tumultuous Times) [19%]

Rui En as Qiu Xueqing (Against The Tide) [19%]

Felicia Chin as Zhang Min (The Journey: Tumultuous Times) [16%]

Joanne Peh as Liao Xinyi (C.L.I.F 3) [15%]

Jeanette Aw as Mo Yuqing (World At Your Feet) [12%]*

Chris Tong as Fang Yiting (The Caregivers) [11%]

BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR

Chen Hanwei as Hu Weiren (The Journey: Tumultuous Times) [20%]

Chen Shucheng as Lian Mengyong (Blessings) [15%]

Choo Houren as Zeng Jianwang (Served H.O.T) [11%]

Rayson Tan as Luo Dongfa (Entangled) [11%]

Jeffrey Xu as Xiao Yizhan (SCRUM) [10%]

BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS

Joanne Peh as Zhang Huiniang (The Journey: Tumultuous Times) [17%]

Jin Yinji as Yang Bamei (Three Wishes) [15%]

Aileen Tan as Lin Yueqin (Entangled) [13%]

Carrie Wong as Di Yao (Against The Tide) [13%]

Vivian Lai as Mo Lihua (World At Your Feet) [10%]

That's our conclusion from the first round of judging (Well, it looks like The Journey: Tumultuous Times dominated the top ranks). Round 2 will be carried out next week as we need some time to review all their performances, especially for the supporting characters.

Okay, I'm off for now. Good night readers! :D

Star Awards 20 "Best Categories" Prediction - Who would be the King & Queen this time round?

And here we are again, it's the time of the year. The time where Singaporeans (including oversea Singaporean Drama fans) make a big fuss of. This coming Sunday is the long awaited Star Awards 20 Show 2 and I am here to share with you our predictions (my family, including my Mum and my sister) for the year. We have very strong contenders in most of the categories this year so it really took some time for us to decide.

BEST ACTOR 最佳男主角

We say: Terence Cao as Zhang Guangda (The Journey: A Voyage)

I have to say, there were numerous times we almost threw our stuff to our 45" TV screen. Terence's portrayal as the evil and cunning Zhang Guangda is so real you would never believe! His great performance did not only gain likes but hates as well. Plus, being a 6-time nominee, it's high time he win this award. And, it is obvious, he had a certain level of acting skills if not he wouldn't even be nominated. So, judges, whoever you are, let him win this award, letting him graduate in his own yearbook of acting school is the least you could do.

Dark Horse: Pierre Png as Hei Long (The Journey: A Voyage)

Well, I have no words for the darkness Hei Long went through during his childhood, which made him who he was when he grew up. He is evil but like Pierre says himself: "黑龙不是坏人 (Translation: Hei Long is no baddie)". But, my mother did mentioned (and we agreed) that Pierre was acting evil and nice (only to Yazi) at the same time. So, you could never hate him a 100%, and hence, not a success in being evil. However, we couldn't ignore the hard work he put into the drama. His script was even exhibited in the museum during the TV50 event to show how much work he has to do in order to read and act according to the script. Plus, being a 4-time nominee, he has an equal chance of winning.

As for Bryan's acting as Liu A-man in Gonna Make It, it was very well portrayed. He could stand a chance winning too but I think the baddies should win this time round. 

Chen Hanwei's role as Yu Fan in The Dream Makers was pretty much flat, his acting was good but the role was flat itself. Plus, as a 4-time Best Actor, it's time for him to give the opportunity to other actors.

Qi Yuwu's acting as Jason Lam in The Dream Makers was natural, especially his love chemistry with Zhao Fei-er and the vastly emotional scene that occurs after Fei-er decided broke up with him. Other than that, the rest was utterly normal (as in the role). Plus, he won Best Actor once, so I think he should give way to the seniors this year.

BEST ACTRESS 最佳女主角

We say: Jeanette Aw as Zhao Fei-er (The Dream Makers)

Yes, we are fans of Jeanette. But this time, I have to clarify that we have valid reasons to say why she should bag the Best Actress award this year. To strengthen my choice, I have the Queen of Cadelcott, Zoe Tay and 4-time Best Actor Chen Hanwei to back me up. Not to forget Bryan Wong and many others too! 

Being a 6-time nominee (just like Terence Cao), she too had a certain level of acting skills no doubt. But Zhao Fei-er brought Jeanette to another level, a level she never stepped on before. She is well known for being able to portray roles similar to Huang Juxiang, Yamamoto Yueniang, Yao Jianhong or Lin Yazi (I don't call them "damsel-in-distress" because most of these characters have a tough personality) very well. But Fei-er is an ambitious C-lister who would do anything it takes to achieve her goal. She is unlike Yazi, who is kind enough to trust Hei Long. Fei'er trusts no one but herself. She could even betray her best friend Fang Tonglin and forgo her 9-year long relationship with her childhood sweetheart Jason Lam just to achieve her goal. However, we couldn't deny that we hated and symphatised her at the same time. It's like we understand why she is doing all this, why is she so persistent in her goal despite having to hurt so many people who loved and cared for her. So that's why I think she stands a great chance in winning this time round.

But, even if she didn't win this time round (as we are afraid of getting disappointed again, just like Jeanette would), we want to let her know, she is already a winner for her performance, there is no need for physical evidence. Just keep up to good work and get it next time round. 

Dark Horse: Chen Liping as Yao-Zhu Kangli (The Dream Makers)

As a veteran, no doubt she is running for this award. My mother once told me, right after the series ended its run, that Yao-Zhu Kangli and Zhao Fei-er would be nominated for Best Actress for the actresses' ability to act well in such versatile roles. No doubt Liping did a great job as a wife of a man who had multiple extramarital affairs and a mother of a child who suffers from autism. Not to forget, she is a high-level executive at work, and hence, she has to juggle her emotions all around to portray this character well. And of course, she did it. However, I have to comment that the chemistry between Kangli and Jianguo is a little lacking near the end of the series, which is when they both reconcile. They don't seem natural as a loving couple; but when they are against each other, that chemistry is out of our imagination! So, if Jeanette weren't to win, she would definitely be next in line. 

As for Rui En's portrayal as Fang Tonglin in The Dream Makers, it was actually not bad. Besides a little overacting for the comedic scenes (maybe due to the demand of the scriptwriters or directors) and the slight lacking of sparks between Tonglin and Jason, the rest was actually well done. But I still think Rui En suits serious roles more, which explains why she deserves to win Best Actress (Star Awards and Asian TV Awards) for Unriddle 2 no doubt.

Rebecca Lim's first attempt for a dual role character Guo Weiqian & Huang Yixin in Sudden is quite successful I would say, At least you won't go thinking: "Oh no, this is so wrong. Should have replaced her for someone else." I was impressed by her acting actually, she was in my list of Best Actress nomination since the day all 2013 dramas finished airing. However, there is still lots of room for improvements I would say, so take this nomination as a motivation to improve, Rebecca. I believe you would score this award one day!

Finally, Chris Tong's acting as the pitiful concubine of Zhang Guangda, Bai Mingzhu from The Journey: A Voyage was a performance which deserves a thumbs-up as well. But I think pitiful roles like this are usually the weaker links in the competition (just like Jeanette's roles as Juxiang, Yueniang and Jianhong in The Little Nyonya and Together respectively, Liping's role as Xiaogu in The Golden Path or Zoe's role as Liu Zhaodi in Devotion). So EPs, please give Chris a role which is vastly different from her personality yet not weak and pitiful. This actress deserves some recognition as well, just like any of the above actresses.

BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR 最佳男配角

We say: Guo Liang as Yao Jianguo (The Dream Makers)
He is a host but yet he was able to portray a role which requires an actor to disperse his inner feelings into good use. And Guo Liang, with little acting experience, did well in it. Well if you were to compare him with Bryan's nomination as Liu A-man, then he will not stand a chance but among his own fellow competitors, he had a 50% chance I would say.

Dark Horse: Jeffrey Xu as Xu Xiaodong (Marry Me)

If you could recall, Jeffrey won Best Supporting Actor with the same role in the Asian TV Awards 2013. If he would share the same fate like Rui En and Aileen Tan, who both won in both the Star Awards and the ATA for the same roles, then he would definitely score his first award this time. 

He did very well in portraying Xiaodong. It was very natural, but it's maybe because of Xiaodong shares similar personalities with Jeffrey (like he said so himself) which is why he is able to portray this role so well. So if it's not Guo Liang, then it's Jeffrey.

As for Dennis Chew's acting as Fang Yuanren in The Dream Makers, it was enjoyable seeing him acting as comedic role. But, there are some moments which he over-reacts, plus he had experiences acting funny (like Aunty Lucy or any hosting he does), this role is not as challenging as any other roles nominated here if compared. 

Shaun Chen's role as Du Zhanpeng in The Dream Makers was pretty much flat, though his acting was good especially when he had to manage his feelings well being the person who fonds Tonglin and the VP of artiste management at the same time. But, I think this is not a winning role but still a great performance done I would say.

Zhang Zhenhuan's acting as Ye Zhibin in Break Free was good. But what I feel is that the role is not memorable enough. Though Zhenhuan himself mentioned he did better as Zhibin than as Yao Wuji in Together, I still think the latter left a deeper impression in me. What he needs is a even more memorable role to act in, Mediacorp EPs, please take my suggestion seriously.

BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS 最佳女配角

We say: Priscelia Chan as Han Xiuxiang (The Journey: A Voyage)

This hardworking actress has just been recognised for her breakthrough performance in The Journey: A Voyage by receiving the Rocket Award a few days ago. What's more to say?

Her performance as Xiuxiang made me forget who Priscelia is. As an actress who usually have timid roles (and some cunning roles), she definitely deserves more than a Rocket Award for her stellar performance in The Journey: A Voyage. In that drama, she is hateful, just because she only has hatred in her head. She did nothing but torture Mingzhu; she is no doubt the no.3 baddie in the drama. However, you pity her when you try to hate her. Why? Because her dreadful husband made her who she was. Maybe Priscelia should thank Terence if she manage to win this award. They have that awesome EVIL chemistry, just like what we saw in the Star Awards 20 Show 1.

Dark Horse: Xiang Yun as Zhang Cuiyan (Beyond)

Who else to win if it's not Priscelia? No doubt it would be the four time winner Xiang Yun. Xiang Yun successfully portrayed the role of a low self-esteem mother, Cuiyan to a daughter who she thought is mentally unstable. I have nothing but the word "natural" to describe her acting. Plus, her mother-daughter chemistry with Jeanette was awesome. That's all I've got to say. So, she would definitely be the next in line if it's not Priscelia.

Hong Huifang's performance as the slightly slutty Fu Meili in Love at Risk was well done but the role is a little too flat and dull to score another win for the two-time winner.

Aileen Tan's role as Seetoh Yan in C.L.I.F. 2 was another job well done for Aileen. But, the only part which is memorable and catchy enough is when she finds out her son became a wanted criminal and the mixed feelings she had as a police and a mother at the same time. That's about all.

Last but not least, Rebecca Lim, the only actress who scored a double nomination in the acting category, acting as Lisa Xiao in The Dream Makers, a very open-minded woman who faced prejudices from all others due to her open personality. Rebecca did a great job in portraying Lisa (definitely better than her role than Zhang Xueqin in Yes We Can) but I think her role Lisa is a weaker contender compared to the two we have chosen above. She is definitely an actress with great potential, I foresee her having great achievements in the near future.

BEST DRAMA 最佳戏剧

We say: The Dream Makers

Hitting the top with viewership ratings, and the nominations (& wins in Show 1) they had in this year's Star Awards, no doubt The Dream Makers would win Best Drama this year. Not to forget the stellar casting of the drama, this definitely is a plus point to all the above. 

Dark Horse: The Journey: A Voyage

If the story line is the only thing we need to compare, The Journey would deserve a win no matter what. Historical dramas with semi-fictional stories has that magnet which keep viewers attracted (especially those who are interested to know more about their ancestors). Though the ratings are at 2nd overall (combining Toggle Catch Up and on TV), the drama is lacking on nominations in this year's award show. The drama is actually very well planned overall with another set of stellar casts, however the bad editing and not-so-surreal special effects during certain points of the drama has been negatively contributing to this award.

As for the rest of the nominated dramas Beyond, C.L.I.F. 2 & 96°C Cafe, they all have great story lines but they were not as sophisticated as the blockbusters, which are more deserving for a win than the rest.

That's all for our predictions. Catch the 20th installment of Star Awards this coming Sunday at the following time slots and channels respectively.

Broadcasting Channels and Time - 27 April 2014 (Sunday)

Singapore - Channel 8 

5:30 PM (Walk of Fame) & 7:00 PM (Awards Show)

Singapore - Channel U 

10:00 PM (Post-Show Party)

Malaysia - Astro AEC (CH301) & Astro Quan Jia (CH308) 

7:00 PM (Awards Show)

Who would be the King and Queen of the Star Awards 2013?

The long-awaited Star Awards 2013 is starting in a few hours time! Are you excited? I certainly am! 

XinMSN of Singapore made their predictions for the awards tonight. No fret, because we, the Singaporean Drama Fan Club will also give you our predictions for the show tonight.

Best Actor 最佳男主角

Predicted Winner: Dai Yang Tian (Poetic Justice)
Dark Horse: Chew Chor Meng (Joys of Life)

Yeap, your eyes were right - we think Dai Yang Tian really stand a chance to win this time. Although many viewers would say Christopher Lee, but we really think DYT deserves the award instead. 

Indeed Chris did a great job in portraying a pre-gambler who mended his ways. Lots of tears were involved in his character as well. But, there were no changes in the character's personality from start to end. He remained as a pitiful father and husband until they finally live happily ever after at the end of the drama. He acted very well, but the character has lesser fluctuations, and therefore, not what the judges may have liked.

As for DYT, his character started of as a playboy who care less of his life since he has tonnes of money which he possibly won't be able to finish. But, after he fell in love with Luoling, he became a more serious chap, and after he fell for Yanzhi, he is as serious as he never be. When he was in between both ladies, when he has a hard time making a decision - all these are emotional techniques. And the great thing is, his age in acting is only 4 years. Don't forget the moment when he realised that he lost his memory and he is partly responsible for Zhonglun's flee.

We chose Chew Chor Meng as the Dark Horse because he were attracted to his joyous and cute character in Joys of Life. In Joys of Life, there were happy moments, sad moments, angry moments and even shy moments which Zhao Dagou has to go through. And Chor Meng portrayed the character well. With his acting experience of over 20 years, he too has a high chance to win this award.

Best Actress 最佳女主角

Predicted Winner: Kym Ng (It Takes Two)
Dark Horse: Cynthia Koh (Show Hand)

I think everyone still remembers how does Luo Na so-called "tortures" and scolds her husband, children, and mother-in-law as well. She is one of the exceptions where the mother-in-law is afraid of her instead of the other way round. She left a very strong impression to viewers with her bossy, naggy and naughty character. And not to forget, Kym is a variety host, not a professional actress. If a host can leave a good impression to viewers because of her acting, this proves that she is good enough to bring the award home.

About this Dark Horse, she was once a winner of the Best Actress Award in 1999. I struggled quite a while to decide whether she should be the dark horse or the winner. Her winning point in this drama is, she not only manage to deceive her husband (saying that the debts were his previous debts), she deceived almost all of the viewers. We never realised the fact that she has become a gambling addict who bring tonnes of debts back home until we reach the middle of the story. She has to act pitiful and deceiving at the same time, which is something not easy to achieve. So, if Kym didn't win, she is the next in line.

Best Supporting Actor 最佳男配角

Predicted Winner: Huang Wenyong (Joys of Life)
Dark Horse: Tay Ping Hui (Unriddle 2) & Romeo Tan (Joys of Life)

Like every other viewer's expected, we think the award should and must go to the late veteran actor, Huang Wenyong. However, we have to clarify that we didn't say he would win just because of his death. We actually thought he would win this award even before he was nominated. 

Wenyong has made an impression to viewers in the 60s blockbuster drama, Joys of Life. Seeing how he scolds his wife and daughters and his disrespectful attitude towards others really made us hate him to the max! With this point itself, I think he is a well-deserved winner of this award. When you are able to make your audience hate you because of your character, you're good.

There are two dark horses for this category, because both of us (my sister and I) could not decide who to choose. So we put both our choices here.
Pinghui's acting was superb all the while, I bet no one disagree to that. With only 7 episodes of appearance, he clinched a nomination to this award - which proves that he's really good. 

As for Romeo, although he is relatively new, his acting in Joys of Life really surprised us. He acted like a nobody from the start, where none of us will put any attention on him but later, all our eyes are on this villainous character. I still think Romeo is still young and therefore he has many years and chances to come. So if Wenyong Dage didn't win, Tay Ping Hui should be the next. And if both of them didn't manage to win, then Romeo must be the winner.

Best Supporting Actress 最佳女配角

Predicted Winner: Jin Yinji (It Takes Two)
Dark Horse: Lin Meijiao (Game Plan)

Since everyone remembered how Luo Na tortured her mother-in-law, I believe everyone also remembered how pitiful is the mother-in-law as well. Jin Yinji just portrayed this cute and yet pitiful character very well. I think no other actress could replace her for this role - which is why the winner of this award should be none other than Jin Yinji.

But, the dark horse for this category is also has a strong position. Lin Meijiao did a very good job in portraying the trickster's assistant, Zhang Shiyun. She is actually acting a "drama" in a drama. When she is on a mission, she would have to transform herself into a particular character, just so that she could trick the target. Also, when her son found out about her wrongdoings, she suffered quite awhile due to emotional breakdown. That is quite a change in the character's tricky personality - and Meijiao made the change very naturally. This is why I think if Jin Yinji doesn't win, she will be the next in line.

Best Newcomer 最佳新人奖

Predicted Winner: Ian Fang (Don't Stop Believin')
Dark Horse: Shane Pow (It Takes Two)

Our predicted winner for the Best Newcomer Award is the favourite of all teens out there (especially females) - Ian Fang. We are choosing him not because he is popular, it is because he really have what it takes to be a successful actor. He cries naturally (although I do not know how he shed his tears, but it looks natural) and he has no problems showing suitable emotions. He is still new, so we can't ask from him much. But he is doing well enough to bring this award back home.

Our dark horse for this category is also a very talented actor indeed - it's Shane Pow. It Takes Two is one of his first few dramas and it's the first drama where he had a slightly more important role than his previous dramas. In fact, he actually has lesser experience than Ian but his acting was very natural indeed. So, if Ian didn't win, Shane must be the one.

-END-

That's all for our prediction. We are from Malaysia so we could not comment on the variety shows and so on. So everyone, stay tuned to Star Awards 2013 Show 2 tonight to see how close our predictions are! Broadcasting channels and time are listed below.

Broadcasting Channels and Time - 28 April 2013 (Sunday)

Singapore - Channel 8 

5:30 PM (Walk of Fame) & 7:00 PM (Awards Show)

Singapore - Channel U 

10:00 PM (Post-Show Party)

Malaysia - Astro AEC & Astro Quan Jia 

7:00 PM (Awards Show)