Saving the best for last, 82-episode blockbuster The Gem of Life will be released in about two weeks as the 41st Anniversary series. Capturing the luxurious sights of tourist attractions around the world, including France, Thailand, and Tibet, one year was required to complete filming. Producer Johnathan Chik is eager to repeat the success of War and Beauty and erase the failure of Dance of Passion; he is perhaps taking a heavy risk with Gem. From elegant wardrobes to expensive sets, the upcoming drama seeks to dazzle us with the glamorous lifestyles of the rich and expose the ugly layers of socialites.

Since the provocative Sales Presentation clip last year, few spoilers have been made public and the level of buzz surrounding the series has been surprisingly moderate in comparison to that of highly-promoted Moonlight Resonance. Recently, Astro On Demand has put out the opening theme video, several promotional trailers, and previews of three episodes to salivate our mouths in preparation for the jewel-studded main course.

Although Gem will not be nominated for any awards this year, a segment during the Anniversary Lightning Ceremony featured a Catwalk. Cast members Ada Choi, Maggie Siu, Gigi Lai, Linda Chung, Moses Chan, Bosco Wong, Bowie Lam, and Kenny Wong modeled sets of jewelry and diamond-encrusted cell phones priced at over HK $38 million. Ada and Linda flaunted their accessories fiercely and appeared to be the brightest stars gracing the stage that night. Amidst the display of sparkles, the true highlight was the opening theme (click HERE to download) by veteran singer Shirley Kwan playing in the background. Her strong, sultry vocals well-suited the Latin-style track.

I truly believe The Gem of Life has the script, cast, big budget, and more to become a modern classic.

2007 has been quite a successful year for TVB. Along with the releases of phenomenal hits Heart of Greed and Steps, we also celebrated our 40th anniversary. As a gift to our faithful viewers, TVB is releasing commemorative buttons of your favorite stars! Each button is available during a limited period of time and only 5,000 units are produced. These are sure to be collector’s items.

Why get a button? Here are 3 reasons:

1. You can immediately identify your allies and enemies on the streets. Remember, actors/actresses are in direct competition with one another. They have no “friends” in the entertainment business - it’s all an act. Follow accordingly.

2. Display your affection. Flaunt the button like you would a pink mohawk or diamond ring.

3. It deserves to be in your collection along with autographed photos purchased off eBay, posters, CDs, DVDs, and other memorabilia.

Below are some of the current buttons available for purchase. Others will be out soon. Quick, buy these now before we stop promoting these people!

KEVIN CHENG & NIKI CHOW
Kevin and Niki are one of TVB’s most favorite couples. Their on-screen chemistry seems to transfer off-screen as well. Are they a real couple or not? Who knows. What’s important is collecting their button before The Seventh Day airs!

Buy yours here! Available until everyone finally realizes we’re never going to release Seventh.

MOSES CHAN
Celebrate Moses’ 2007 Best Actor and Most Favorite Male Character awards by sporting his button! Due to the smashing success of Heart of Greed, we’ll even throw in a free Linda Chung button for Moda fans! If you’re a Bermo fan, we’ll throw in the Bernice Liu button (shown below).

Buy yours here! Available while supplies last. Bermo fans are ineligible to receive the free Linda Chung button. Decide where your loyalties lie.

BERNICE LIU
With a tailor-made role in this year’s dancing series Steps, Bernice’s popularity has risen to a new level! Support this sexy, charismatic, and talented actress by proudly displaying her button!

Buy yours here! Available until she’s nominated for Best Supporting Actress.

LEILA TONG
Leila is an adorable, down-to-earth, and experienced actress who has been working for TVB since 1992. We cherish her dearly. Show your support for this former child actress by purchasing her button!

Buy yours here! Supplies are plentiful. Too plentiful.

TAVIA YEUNG
This beautiful and versatile actress has recently received high acclaim for her excellent portrayal as Jackie in Heart of Greed. TVB always rewards its most hard-working and talented artists.

Buy yours here! Available until she’s reverted back to 4th or 5th female lead.