Entertainment
Does Deal or No Deal need to attract more Welsh players?
With ITV’s reboot of Deal or No Deal now in full swing, fans have noticed that some of the most exciting moments have involved Welsh contestants. With viewers highlighting the charm and entertainment value of Welsh players, we’ve discussed why the hit game show could benefit from getting more locals involved.
The popularity of Deal or No Deal
The initial run of the UK’s Deal or No Deal was broadcast on Channel 4 between 2005 and 2016 before quietly being axed. In 2023, a new revival returned to ITV with a slightly altered format. With viewers flocking to the series in droves, the broadcaster was quick to renew the show for another season this year.
As the game is entirely luck-based, it has made it a great source of inspiration for online gambling games. This includes multiple online slots and even live dealer game shows with Deal or No Deal branding. These are featured at several quality sites that offer UK casino bonuses to new players in Wales, including 888Casino. Until the Welsh get more representation on the show, this is one of the best ways for players to experience being a contestant.
Welshman centre of memorable episode
During the early weeks of the series’ revival in 2023, an episode featuring Portsmouth-based Welsh player Simon inspired a passionate response from viewers after he played a comically bad game. Simon was adamant that his case contained £100,000, only to watch his chances at fortune slowly dwindle.
His confidence ultimately saw him make poor decisions after poor decisions, turning down strong offers and even inspiring viewers to back the Banker in frustration. The game culminated with Simon opening his case to win 10p. Despite his poor efforts, the episode generated widespread online conversations, leading us to believe that more Welsh players deserve a go at the jackpot.
The case for more Welsh players
After Simon’s disastrous performance, it seems fair that another Welsh player is invited along to do their country proud. In the final episode of the series’ ITV broadcast in 2023, Welsh player Jamie Foulkes from Cefn Mawr became an audience favourite after displaying the natural charming and quick wit characteristic of our locals.
His gameplay saw him nicknamed “mystic Jamie” for his ability to correctly guess case amounts, and after an extended moment of consideration, accepted a life-changing Banker’s offer of £14,850. This is a considerable amount when considering the top prize in the relaunched edition is £100,000 rather than the previous £250,000 offered.
The revival series is produced in Salford’s Media City complex, making it only a short drive away from residents in Northern Wales. This was one of the reasons that Foulkes applied for the show, so there’s no reason why more Welsh players couldn’t be selected.
Welsh players bring something special
Whether it’s the captivating yet frustrating performance of Simon or the charming run of Jamie Foulkes, Welsh players have already made a splash on the revived series of Deal or No Deal. We hope that the future season will showcase more local players to display our unique charms across the UK.
Entertainment
Celebrate Chinese New Year with a blockbuster line-up at Vue Carmarthen
VUE CARMARTHEN is kicking off the Chinese New Year in style this January with an exciting mix of Mandarin cinema, featuring the latest blockbusters and a special anniversary screening of the iconic Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.
25th Anniversary of a Classic
This year marks the 25th anniversary of Ang Lee’s martial arts masterpiece Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, which returns to the big screen on January 24. Winner of four Academy Awards, including Best Foreign Language Film, the visually stunning epic tells the tale of a young Chinese warrior in 19th century China who steals a legendary sword, embarking on a journey of adventure and discovery.
Blockbuster Mandarin Films
In addition to this celebrated classic, Vue Carmarthen will screen two major Mandarin releases on January 31:
- Detective Chinatown 1900: The latest instalment in the popular Chinese detective comedy series. Set in San Francisco’s Chinatown in 1900, the story follows an unlikely detective duo as they unravel the mystery of a woman’s murder, clearing the name of an accused Chinese man in the process.
- Creation of the Gods 2: The Battle at Xiqi: The second instalment in the Fengshen Trilogy. This epic fantasy adventure immerses viewers in a mythical world where gods and immortal warriors clash in a monumental battle between two armies.
Celebrating Mandarin Cinema
Michelle Kardoun, General Manager of Vue Carmarthen, expressed her excitement about the event:
“We’re thrilled to ring in the Chinese New Year by celebrating the finest in Mandarin cinema, which is enjoying a remarkable surge in global popularity. We’re especially excited to welcome back the record-breaking Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon—a trailblazing film that paved the way for Mandarin cinema and firmly established the genre on the global stage.”
Join Vue Carmarthen for an unforgettable celebration of Chinese New Year and Mandarin cinema.
在 Vue Carmarthen 与一系列精彩电影共庆中国新年
为庆祝即将到来的中国新年,Vue Carmarthen 将于今年一月呈现一系列精彩的华语电影,包括最新大片以及经典名作《卧虎藏龙》的特别纪念放映。
经典重映:25 周年纪念
今年恰逢李安导演的武侠经典《卧虎藏龙》上映 25 周年。这部作品曾斩获四项奥斯卡大奖,包括最佳外语片,将于 1 月 24 日重返大银幕。影片讲述了 19 世纪的中国,一名年轻的武士偷走了一把传奇之剑,踏上了充满冒险与发现的旅程。这部视觉震撼的史诗电影堪称全球武侠电影的巅峰之作。
华语电影大片连映
除了经典重映,Vue Carmarthen 将于 1 月 31 日放映两部备受期待的华语大片:
- 《唐人街探案 1900》:深受喜爱的《唐人街探案》系列最新力作,故事发生在 1900 年的旧金山唐人街。一桩女性谋杀案将一名华人男子推向嫌疑人的风口浪尖,而一对非传统侦探搭档将联手追查真凶,揭开真相。
- 《封神之战:西岐之战》:封神三部曲的第二部作品。这部奇幻冒险大片带领观众进入一个充满英雄与神祇的世界,两个军队之间的史诗级大战即将展开,甚至不朽的战士也加入了战斗。
致敬华语电影
Vue Carmarthen 总经理 Michelle Kardoun 表示:
“我们非常高兴以华语电影的最佳代表作品庆祝中国新年。近年来,华语电影在全球范围内的人气大幅飙升,而《卧虎藏龙》的回归更是令人激动。这部开创性的影片奠定了华语电影的全球地位,为观众呈现了一场文化与艺术的盛宴。”
加入 Vue Carmarthen,一起欣赏华语电影的非凡魅力,欢度中国新年!
Entertainment
A new year but the same January traditions
December is a fairly extravagant month for most, with many people overspending on groceries, eating out, engaging in more frequent social gatherings, and purchasing numerous gifts However, January is often much more steady, with people trying to compensate for their indulgence in December by cutting back on their spending.
Whilst January is a time for steady living, it doesn’t mean it has to be a dull month! There are plenty of ways you can keep January in Pembrokeshire interesting without breaking the bank. Here are a few things you can do both offline and online to keep busy whilst reducing your spending after the holiday period.
Online entertainment
Nowadays you can find almost anything online, from things to watch to games to play. The internet offers endless possibilities for entertainment. Similarly, you can visit any country you like on the TV via YouTube, or you can learn a new hobby without expensive lessons.
Try online gaming
Online gaming is an excellent way to occupy yourself. Whether you prefer a simple racing game or want to completely immerse yourself in a fantasy world, there is something for everyone. Gaming with others online is also a great way to stay connected without the need to go out and spend money.
You could even take the thrill of gaming up a notch and try online casinos. Online slots can be a fun way to pass the time and playing for real money could add some excitement to your evenings. And those winter-themed slot motifs will sure make you feel better.
Binge watch a new TV series
Starting a new TV series can be very exciting, and with plenty of affordable streaming services available such as Netflix or Disney Plus, it’s easy to find a show, or several, that will keep you engaged for the entirety of January.
New hobbies
The beginning of a new year is the perfect time to start fresh and trying a new hobby is a good place to start. There are plenty of hobbies that involve little to no cost, such as baking, gardening, running, and reading. These are just a handful of low-cost hobbies you could take up.
Group activities
Consider doing group activities with friends which will allow you to split the costs. You could compete in a bake-off or ‘come dine with me’ style competition. Alternatively, if you still fancy going out, places like Thorpe Park or Go Ape offer group discounts which can help to reduce expenses.
You can still have fun and cut back!
By being a little more strategic, you can still enjoy January even whilst cutting back after an expensive December. From online gaming to trying new hobbies, you can keep busy without spending a fortune.
Entertainment
Paranormal Investigations Return to The Silver Mountain Experience
THE SILVER MOUNTAIN EXPERIENCE, a popular visitor attraction near Aberystwyth, is kicking off the new year with a spine-chilling event as its renowned Paranormal Investigations return on January 25.
Over recent years, these investigations have delved into the eerie secrets hidden within the Victorian silver-lead mine at Ponterwyd, offering participants an unforgettable glimpse into the unknown.
Guests will step into the role of ghost hunters, using authentic ghost-hunting equipment to uncover what may lurk beneath the surface. This unique experience challenges the brave-hearted to explore one of the UK’s most haunted mines under the cover of darkness.
Armed with tools, guidance, and courage, participants will investigate various areas, from historic buildings to the haunting depths of the Victorian mine. The experience is fully immersive, leaving no room to hide as attendees face the unexplained head-on.
A team of paranormal experts and historians will accompany participants, providing direction and insight throughout the night. Using both cutting-edge scientific tools and traditional methods, the team aims to prove that the mine’s history is far from silent.
Tickets are limited and must be booked in advance at www.silvermountainexperience.co.uk/paranormal.
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