THE FACE BEHIND THE MASK
(Taiwan 1977)
Original Title: Long She Xia Ying
Directed by Chen Chi Hwa Produced by Ching Ping Wong Action by Ho Wei Hsiung Starring: Hsu Feng, Yuen Hua, Lo Lieh, Ma Ju Lung, Hu Chi, Kao Ming, Chui Git, Miao Tian, Hsueh Han, Lee Man Tai, Hsiao Yao, Ko Yu Min, Wu Chia Hsiang, Jackie Chan Reviewing: YouTube Release Genres: Traditional Kung-Fu / Drama
Rating - 3.7 / 5
Synopsis: Chi Tien Wei has been elected Chief of the Jiang Hu after his three disciples eliminate the most feared fighters in the Jiang Hu, namely: the 'Militant Dragon and Tiger', the 'Devil Stars', and the 'Three Horrid Mice'. However, not everyone is pleased at Wei's appointment as Chief and many anonymous fighters and wizards are sent t upset his household, 'The First Family'. Soon Chi Tien Wei realizes that there is a betrayer within his own house. (93 Mins)
Views: Although often sold as a Jackie Chan film in the west, The Face Behind The Mask is most definitely not. While the mega-star and greatest action hero in the world does appear (albeit, masked) it's nothing more than a bit-part in what was perhaps his final role as an extra before taking his journey with Lo Wei – of which director Chen Chi Hwa would join him on soon after. He is also not the star or the fight-choreographer, which also tends to be highlighted by distributors (although that's not to say he wasn't allowed to look after his own fight scenes possibly). When Chi Tien Wen (Hu Chi) is elected to be the leader of the martial world, he soon finds out that many other families and fighters are against it. As more warriors and assassins descend upon the 'first family', the master's top three disciples must do their best to protect him, no matter what the cost. But soon, they find that there is a betrayer in the Chi house that leads to fingers being pointed and innocent people being framed. As one disciple sets out to uncover the truth, twist and twist unravels that all lead to an exciting finale of good versus evil...
Produced by the short-lived Chung Wai Motion Picture Company, whose only other production was A Massacre Survivor (which I really enjoyed), this late 70s wuxia thriller was scripted by Chang Hsin Yi – the same writer behind The Traitorous, 18 Bronzemen, Kung Fu Wonder Child, Shaolin Vs Lama, and other Chen Chi Hwa films like Snake & Crane Arts Of Shaolin, and Dance Of Death. While it was a different time that involved most Hong Kong and Taiwanese kung-fu movies working from the same plot-lines, The Face Behind The Mask offers a bit more of a solid story with many twists and reveals that actually all makes sense in the end, proving to be one of Chen's better directorial efforts. Although he had co-directed Jackie in Shaolin Wooden Men the year before, Chi Hwa continued his relationship with the young star by having him appear here before going on to direct him the following year in Snake & Crane Arts Of Shaolin and Half A Loaf Of Kung Fu – both of which I just love. A few years later and with his newfound stardom behind him, Jackie would return the favour to Chen Chi Hwa by directing the action in 36 Crazy Fists and Dance Of Death with Angela Mao Ying, before bringing him along as an assistant director on many of his modern hits from Young Master onwards!
The film also benefits from a strong cast starting with its 3 main leads with Shaw Brothers legends Lo Lieh and Yueh Hua joined by King Hu favourite, Hsu Feng. They are backed by Taiwanese stars Miao Tian, Hsueh Han, Lin Chao Hsiung, Hsiao Yao, and popular Hong Kong actor Lee Man Tai who played the Devil Monk in Killer Meteors and the old beggar in Snake & Crane Arts Of Shaolin, as well as starring in many hits such as The Prodigal Son, Last Hero In China, Millionaires Express (Shanghai Express), Magnificent Warriors, and Jackie Chan's fantastic, Miracles. Along with a huge cast of extras, everyone involved gives very good performances that help make The Face Behind The Mask a more solid movie than it is often given credit for. The non-stop kung-fu and swordplay action are handled by Ho Wei Hsiung, bit-part actor of over 150 titles from 8 Dragon Swords to Snuff Bottle Connection, and Kung Fu Emperor to Island Of Fire – with choreographer credits on a lesser amount of titles. While perhaps not the greatest battles of its time, considering what was coming out of Shaw Brothers and Golden Harvest by this stage, Ho still manages to keep viewers attention with clean choreography, speedy moves, and neat camera work which was captured by Taiwanese cinematic veteran, Chen Jung Shu – cinematographer on over 130 films including the majority of Jackie Chan's Lo Wei movies, Dragon Lord, Drunken Tai Chi, Butterfly & Sword, and the aforementioned Island Of Fire.
Well directed, neatly shot, and nicely written, The Face Behind The Mask continues to entertain today with its great cast and well-choreographed fights. As I say with most of these classic hits, the chance to see it fully restored and on blu-ray would be refreshing and no doubt gain the film the respect it deserves before it gets completely forgotten about. But until then, it still proves to be worth a watch for fans of the leading stars or anyone who fancies a decent, old-school wuxia thriller...
Overall: Jam-packed with kung-fu and swordplay action, The Face Behind The Mask is a great wuxia thriller with plenty of twists and a great cast!
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FACE/OFF
(USA 1997)
Directed by John Woo Produced by Terence Chang, Christopher Godsick, Michael Douglas Action by John Woo, Brian Smrz Starring: John Travolta, Nicholas Cage, Joan Allen, Alessandro Nivola, Gina Gershon, Dominique Swain, Nick Cassavetes, Margaret Cho, Thomas Jane Reviewing: Touchstone Home Video UK DVD Release Genres: Action / Crime / Sci-Fi
Rating - 2.3 / 5
DVD Synopsis: Oscar winning superstar Nicolas Cage (Con Air) and screen icon John Travolta (Pulp Fiction) battle head to head in FACE/OFF... the ultimate cat and mouse thriller directed by the worlds most acclaimed action film director, John Woo (Mission Impossible 2). To avenge the senseless murder of his son, FBI agent Sean Archer (Travolta) undergoes radical new surgery allowing him to switch faces with the comatose terrorist Castor Troy (Cage) and assume his identity. But when Castor awakes and assumes Sean's identity, the reall Sean is thrust into an unimaginable nightmare, fighting not only for his life but also those of his wife (Joan Allen) and daughter. Briliant performances and mind-numbing visual effects make FACE/OFF the explosive action thriller you've got to see to believe. (138 Mins)
Views: I remember the excitement surrounding Face/Off when it first came out. An explosive thriller with a story so ridiculous, it could prove to be a disaster if not in the hands of the right director. That person of course, was John Woo – a master of action movies that had been entertaining fans like myself with Hong Kong titles such as Last Hurrah For Chivalry, A Better Tomorrow, The Killer, Bullet In The Head, and Hard Boiled – which soon saw him gain huge notoriety in Hollywood. Upon making the move, Woo delivered the Van-tastic action-thriller, Hard Target, to the world and quickly became the go-to guy for Hollywood blockbuster action flicks. Following up with the fun but just-as-daft, Broken Arrow and a TV movie remake of his very own Once A Thief, Woo was soon signed-on to bring Face/Off to life – his biggest project to date. The film follows the simple plot of a cop, Sean Archer, who swaps faces with hardened criminal, Castor Troy, so he can solve a case. But when Archer comes face-to-face with himself, he knows things have gotten a little out-of-hand. As families and friends are brought into the situation and their lives endangered, Archer must convince his wife and colleagues that he is the real Sean and stop Troy once and for all, as well as get back his face. How fucking ridiculous!
There are plenty of cringe-worthy moments in Face/Off that would be hailed as utterly ridiculous if they appeared in any other film. But for some reason, because of its director and leading stars, Face/Off seems to get away with it by a lot of reviewers and critics. From god-awful cheesy lines to extreme over-acting, obvious stunt-doubles to bad continuity, and bizarre moments like when random fireworks go off after Cage drives his plane through an air-hanger, to the ultimate gaff of putting a new face on a person with a completely different body shape (and size). It's corny as hell, but for some crazy reason the majority of western cinema goers loved it. Personally, I didn't really see the appeal, with the first major turn-off for me being the casting choices! Face/Off probably has the most uninteresting and unappealing cast of any Hollywood blockbuster film, and I couldn't really care for anyone at all on the screen – let alone its two leading men. Co-star Nick Cassavetes was hugely annoying as Pollux, delivering lines in a soft spoken and condescending fashion that just annoyed the fuck right out of me. Honestly, had this starred anyone else but John Travolta and Ridiculous Cage, I may have been singing a different tune. If there are two Hollywood actors I just can't take seriously, it has got to be these two. And while they may deliver some of their moments in either roles with some degree of competency, both stars go way over the top with some utterly ridiculous 'crazy' performances that make them seem almost comical in their execution. I mean, how these guys are considered as some of Hollywood's finest is beyond me – I just don't get it (especially Cage). I did however, find it interesting to note that the writers had initially intended the roles to go to Michael Douglas and Harrision Ford, which would have been one hell of a movie! But after some consideration, Michael decided that he would help produce the film and unfortunately, the roles went to Cage and Travolta. Of course, the latter had just came off the set from Broken Arrow which was shot the year before and also directed by Woo – and Cage would go on to star in John Woo's epic wartime, action-drama, Windtalkers, 5 years after this...
I have to say that, when John Woo made the move to Hollywood I found that his films very quickly started to lose that Hong Kong magic that made him such a respected and much loved action-director of Asian cinema – much like that of any Hong Kong director who has tried to make the move. With US guidelines and restrictions set in place, his Hollywood titles very quickly exchanged the gritty realism of his Hong Kong set-pieces for polished action scenes. Those typical John Woo trademarks that we all loved to watch in the likes of A Better Tomorrow, The Killer, and Hardboiled, soon became eye-rolling moments that were very over-used in every aspect. On top of that, Woo was lacking some decent actors that could deliver a role that oozed the coolness and charm of Chow Yun Fat, Tony Leung, or Simon Yam. In fact, had this film been used as the launching pad for Chow Yun Fat and Simon Yam's Hollywood debut, I reckon Face/Off would be considered as much of a classic for John Woo as one of his Hong Kong titles are today. On a positive note, there are some nice action scenes that are neatly placed throughout its 133 minute running time (or longer in some other territories). While they are nothing in comparison to the aforementioned Hong Kong titles, they obviously did the job in entertaining Hollywood executives and action fans alike. But as a long-time fan of HK cinema, I honestly wasn't seeing anything spectacular. Perhaps Face/Off, both in its story, style, and action, is a product of its time – a time that I wasn't too fussed about, especially when it came to American movies and television shows. While I always try to re-watch films like this or Broken Arrow (or even Joss Whedon's cut of Justice League) with the hope that they will get better or perhaps prove to be a little more entertaining than before – it just never seems to be the case, and always leaves me feeling a tad disappointed or bored. Apart from offering an exciting instalment to the franchise of Mission Impossible with the first of its sequels, and a memorable piece with Windtalkers, John Woo's light in Hollywood soon began to fade and within a decade of making Face/Off would return to the motherland to produce and direct a number of epics such as Red Cliff, Warriors Of The Rainbow, Reign Of Assassins, and The Crossing. We'll not say too much about Manhunt though!
Overall: A ridiculous script with questionable performances that dilute what decent action is there, and help render Face/Off as just another Hollywood action flick!
DVD Extras: Trailers, Action Overload (Short edit of action scenes), Cast Bio's
FAIRY TALE KILLER
(Hong Kong 2012)
Original Title: Zui Xiong (aka) Perfect Fairy Tale
Directed by Danny Pang Produced by Danny Pang, Alvin Lam Starring: Sean Lau Ching Wan, Wang Ban Qiang, Elanne Kong, Joey man Yee man, Ken Lo, Lam Suet, James Ho, Fu Ka Lei Reviewing: Terracotta UK DVD Release Genres: Thriller / Crime / Mystery
Rating - 2 / 5
DVD Synopsis: Once upon a time there lived a hard-nosed detective with a gruesome case to solve. A seemingly disturbed man confesses to a brutal murder. After the alleged victim is discovered alive and well, the perpetrator is released. Days later the victim is found dead, with his stomach cut open and stuffed with rocks. This is just the first chapter in a series of sadistic killings inspired by Cinderella, The Red Shoes and Hansel & Gretel. Can the detective solve the Grimm riddles, catch the killer and live happily ever after? (90 Mins)
Views: Danny Pang's Fairy Tale Killer opens with quite an intriguing scene as we see the mentally challenged Wu handcuffed to a chair in a police station. With his face caked in make-up, Wu is questioned by a number of cops, led by Inspector Wong, who listen to his claims that he has killed a man called Cheung Fai. The team quickly check on his named victim, who they find alive and well at his home. Inspector Wong releases Wu, blaming his illness for the wasting of police time and thinks nothing more of it. That evening, Inspector Wong returns home to his autistic son and estranged wife – a setting that leaves him angry and distant, void of any love for his family in not knowing how to deal with his child's behavioral issues. At the same time, Wu has actually taken Cheung Fai prisoner and murders him in a bizarre fashion that leaves the deceased with rocks in his stomach. After finding the body, Inspector Wong knows exactly who he is looking for and sends his team on a mission to bring Wu back into custody! As the chase begins and the bodies begin to pile up, with each of the deaths relating in some respect to fairy tales, Inspector Wong starts to feel the pressure while stepping even further away from his family. It all leads to a brutal showdown that blends thrillers like Se7en and Saw with tales from the Brothers Grimm, as Wong tries to put a stop to Wu and save those most important to him!
The Pang brothers have delivered a mix of films both as a team and as single directors. The Eye was a highly enjoyable horror that gained a Hollywood remake, and movies such as Leave Me Alone, The Detective, The Storm Warriors, and Ab-Normal Beauty, definitely had their moments. But there really hasn't been too much more that has stood-out for me and, in-turn, I've never been one to rush out to see anything they have been behind. So I was quite late in getting to see Fairy Tale Killer to be honest, even though it has one of my favourite Hong Kong actors as the lead and offered up an interesting take on the serial killer genre. And while it's far from the worst movie in the Pang's filmography, it's equally as far from their best. As with most of his films, Danny Pang seems to shift a lot of his focus on the visual aspects of his storytelling, while often losing track of the overall direction – something that helps Fairy Tale Killer offer up perhaps just too many yawn inducing moments than one would have hoped for. Written by Pang and 3 other writers, the script doesn't really deliver anything overly exciting and saves anything worth getting excited about, for the last 30 minutes. One of these writers was Szeto Kam Yuen, a Johnnie To preferred scribe who has penned many great titles such as The Longest Nite, A Hero Never Dies, SPL, Exiled, Accident, and much more. Regardless, I have to admit that at the end of the film, I was a left with my mouth hanging open after the reveal of why Wu had became the killer he was and what it all meant. Talk about going around the world for a shortcut!!
I have to say though, Lau Ching Wan does a great job as Inspector Wong, the troubled family man who will do what he can to gain the next promotion. While he can only work with what he's got, the best of Lau is saved for the finale when he must save his team and family from the clutches of crazed serial killer, Wu – played wonderfully by the fantastic Wang Bao Qiang. It was nice to see Ken Lo play a more subdued role as a cop on Wong's team, rather than another OTT thug or pointless gangster. Fan favourite, Lam Suet, cameos as Wu's first victim Cheung Fai, and Elanne Kong does a great job as the artistic mute who is a major part of the killers logic. Joey Man plays Lau Ching Wan's wife, in what would be her last role to date and the rest of the supporting cast really doesn't leave any kind of an impression at all to be honest. In a nutshell, Fairy Tale Killer should have been much better than it ends-up being, although it still makes for an interesting watch if you run out of options...
Overall: With nothing overly-new or exciting on offer, Fairy Tale Killer fails to deliver on many levels, but is worthy of one watch at the very least!
DVD Extras: Making Of Documentary, Interview With Lau Ching Wan, Trailers
FALCON RISING
(USA 2014)
Directed by Ernie Barabash Produced by Ernst Etchie Stroh, Shahar Stroh Action by Larnell Stovall Starring: Michael Jai White, Neal McDonough, Jimmy Navarro, Millie Ruperto, Lateef Crowder, Masashi Odate, Hazuki Kato, Laila Ali Reviewing: Amazon Prime UK Release Genres: Martial Arts / Action / Thriller
Rating - 3.5 / 5
Synopsis: Chapman is an ex-marine living in the slums of Brazil. After his sister is attacked and left for dead by a local yakuza outfit, Chapman sets out for revenge and puts his tactical training to full use in order to find her attackers. (103 Mins)
Views: Ernie Barabash, the same director behind horror titles Cube Zero, Stir Of Echoes: The Homecoming, and They Wait, as well as mildly entertaining martial-arts-action flicks like Assassination Games, 6 Bullets, and Pound Of Flesh – brings us another generic tale that could fall into the filmography of Jean Claude Van Damme, Scott Adkins, or even (dare I say it) Steven Seagal. This time, fan favourite Michael Jai White takes the lead as ex-marine John Chapman, a PTSD suffering veteran who lives in the slums of Rio De Janeiro. Refusing to take his medication, Chapman often toys with putting a bullet in his brain after downing a bottle of whiskey. Not long after his sister comes to visit, she is found washed up on the rocky shoreline badly beaten and left for dead by a local yakuza outfit. With the help of some local police, the Falcon sets-out on a mission to find his sisters attackers and, at the same time, break a child-prostitution racket – resulting in plenty of martial-arts-action and bloodied violence!
While generic in many ways and formulaic in plot, Falcon Rising may actually be one of Ernie's better films as a director. It's neatly shot and directed, with decent production values and a much more colourful look overall – which makes a change from the typical eastern-European setting he often likes to use. But a big part of what makes this a better film, is Michael Jai White and his strong supporting cast. Although he's been in the business for over 3 decades now, this kick-ass action star still isn't getting the recognition he deserves as a martial artist and action hero. As well as portraying the first live-action adaptation of Spawn, Michael has went on to star in many great action flicks such as Silver Hawk with Michelle Yeoh, Black Dynamite, Blood & Bone, Accident Man, and Triple Threat – as well as giving a memorable turn as the Bronze Tiger in the CW's Arrow. Incidentally his Falcon Rising co-star, the always wonderful Neal McDonough, was a huge part of the very same show – so it was nice to same them share the screen together again, with Neal playing a cop who helps the Falcon on his case. It was also great to see Lateef Crowder turn in a role as a Brazilian cop. Lateef impressed many moons ago as the Capoeira fighter who gave Tony Jaa a hard time in Tom Yum Goong (aka Warrior King, aka The Protector), and has since appeared in many films such as Tekken and Undisputed 3, as well as having worked in the stunt department on many bigger films like the disastrous Dragonball Evolution, The Expendables, Wonder Woman, and The Mandalorian. I enjoyed seeing him back on-screen in a solid role that gave him the chance to show some great moves and a decent performance as one of the Brazilian cops.
This was supposed to be the first of a series of 'Falcon' movies starring Michael Jai White as the titular character, and to be honest, I wouldn't mind seeing a bit more. While it's hardly the greatest thing ever written and offers a few good moments of cheesiness, there certainly isn't anything that's as off-putting or ridiculous as many of Ernie Barabash's other films – or the majority of straight-to-video Van Damme or Seagal movies from the last 20 years. I often wonder if the great Billy Blanks had not stepped away from the film-scene to focus on his Tae-Bo phenomenon at the turn-of-the-century, would we have gotten to see the teaming-up of these two amazing martial arts stars at some point?! Maybe it's still not too late. But until that happens, there's always Falcon Rising – a highly enjoyable martial-arts-action-thriller that gives Michael Jai White the chance to shine and kick-ass in the most entertaining of ways...
Overall: Great fun, neatly directed, with plenty of hard action, Falcon Rising is worth the watch and totally entertains!
THE FALL OF AKO CASTLE
(Japan 1978)
Original Title: Ako Jo Danzetsu 赤穂城断絶 (aka) Swords Of Vengeance
Directed by Kinji Fukasaku Produced by Toei Film Company Starring: Sonny Chiba, Toshiro Mifune, Yorozuya Kinnosuke, Tsunehiko Watase, Shinsuke Mikimoto, Mariko Okada, Tetsuro Tamba, Yoshi Kato Reviewing: Eureka Video UK Blu-ray Release Genres: Historical / Samurai / Drama
Rating - 4.7 / 5
Eureka Video Blu-ray Synopsis: Kinji Fukasaku (Battle Royale) brings together an ensemble cast, including two icons of Japanese cinema — Toshiro Mifune (Seven Samurai) and Sonny Chiba (The Street Fighter) — for this samurai epic, a retelling of the classic story of the 47 ronin. When an injustice costs his master his life and estate, loyal retainer Ōishi (Kinnosuke Yorozuya, Bushido) vows revenge. Because the target of his vengeance is protected by the ruling shogunate, any retaliation would be seen as an act of treason. Ōishi assembles the remaining ranks of the now-masterless samurai and the 47 of them pledge a blood oath to avenge their slain lord. Tensions rise among the ranks of the ronin eager to launch the mission, as Ōishi bides his time awaiting the right time to strike. Enemy spies and assassins track Ōishi, who has seemingly fallen into vice: Has he lost his sense of honour, or is it just a part of his plan? The Fall of Ako Castle offers a moving tale of loyalty, betrayal, and sacrifice where classical history explodes into brutal samurai carnage. The Masters of Cinema Series is proud to present Fukasaku’s retelling of one of Japan’s most resonant events. (159 Mins)
Views: Based on true historical events set between 1701 – 1702, and one of Japan's most famous stories, The Fall Of Ako Castle is a stunning retelling of the famed 47 Ronin, probably better known in the west as Swords Of Vengeance! After Lord Tsunayoshi strips 48 samurai of their assets, a young swordsman called Asano gets angered by the court official Kira's insults and attempts to kill him during a visit to his home. But he is quickly stopped after only managing to inflict minor wounds on Kira. For his actions, Asano is sentenced to seppuku while his land and property are claimed by the shogunate who goes on to abolish the Asano name. Upset by the outcome and unfair decisions made by the very lord they work for, Asano's 47 fellow samurai brothers vow to take vengeance for him. But instead of rushing out after Kira, they patiently wait a long year to make their move – giving them enough time to execute the right plan and lead Kira into a false sense of security. Eventually, the Ako samurai descend on the inn where the now-retired court official is living, resulting in a brutal and bloody battle that sees Kira sliced down and those who help him, quickly disposed of. Although seen as heroes by many after taking revenge, the 47 ronin are all sentenced to seppuku like their brother – only this time, with the Shogunate choosing to abolish the name of Kira instead in honour of the warriors!
It's no secret that the tale of the 47 Ronin, or Chushingura, has been adapted for television and cinema many times over the years, with the first being made in the second decade of the early 1900s. But perhaps it would be the 1941 epic two-part feature from director Kenji Mizoguchi called, Genroku Chushingura or The 47 Ronin, that comes to peoples minds first, or maybe it would be Hiroshi Inagaki's 1962 adaptation that actually went onto gain more attention in the west. Of course, more would soon follow including The Fall Of Ako Castle and a couple of Hollywood adaptations such as the hugely underrated Keanu Reeves fantasy adaptation, 47 Ronin (directed by Carl Rinsch), and The Last Knights with Morgan Freeman and Clive Own, which was loosely based on the story and helmed by artistic director Kazuaki Kiriya – the same man behind the ultra stylish Casshern and Goemon Japanese action films. Interestingly, both Western re-tellings failed to light up the box-office proving that audiences are much happier to see an authentic Japanese production of such a legendary tale – no matter how many times it will be retold...
The Fall Of Ako Castle is directed by the late and legendary Kinji Fukasaku, one of Japan's biggest and best directors who was known for his wide range of genre pieces from gritty Yakuza thrillers such as the Battles Without Honour & Humanity series to stylish samurai dramas including Shogun's Samurai, Legend Of The Eight Samurai, and Samurai Reincarnation, even dipping into the sci-fi action genre with films such as Message From Space and Virus. Of course, for those uninitiated into the world of Japanese cinema, Fukasaku would be most recognised for bringing the hugely successful and brutal Battle Royale to the world – his final full feature before passing during the production of its sequel at the age of 72. Winning the Japanese Academy Award for Director of the Year 3 times in his life, as well as receiving the Purple Medal of Honour from the Japanese government for his work, Kinji Fukasaku directed over 60 films throughout his 4 decades in the business, going on to inspire many who came after him including his own son, Kenta Fukasaku, who has went onto become a successful director in his own right.
In The Fall Of Ako Castle, Kinji delivers a stunning slice of samurai cinema crammed with powerful performances from everyone involved, blindingly fast swordplay and violent clashes, and gorgeous cinematography delivered by Yoshio Miyajima – the same eye behind classics such as Harakiri, The Human Condition Trilogy, and Kwaidan – who would go on to bag an Academy Award nomination for his efforts. Just prior to this, Kinji had also directed the amazing and aforementioned Shogun's Samurai, the first of three traditional features that would see the great Sonny Chiba play the infamous Jubei, continuing the chanbara theme with Samurai Reincarnation, Legend Of The Eight Samurai, and Sure Death 4, although none would quite offer the same dramatic impact as The Fall Of Ako Castle, respectfully. A legend in his own right, Shinichi 'Sonny' Chiba needs no introduction. As a kid, I had loved watching him in many of the aforementioned samurai titles as well as films such as The Street Fighter Trilogy, Roaring Fire, Sister Street Fighter, Bullet Train, G.I. Samurai, and many more, continuing to do so as I obtain more and more of the late stars' lengthy filmography. Along with the great Chiba, Fukasaku delivers a stunning cast of competent performers including the prolific Yorozuya Kinnosuke as leading man Oishi. Starting off as a kabuki performer, Yorozuya went onto become one of the big screens most loved actors starring in more than 140 films through to the mid-90s including the brilliant Portrait Of Hell and aforementioned Shogun's Samurai, as well as the brilliant 1980s television show Shogun alongside the wonderful Toshiro Mifune and Richard Chamberlain. Along the way, Yorozuya would win a number of awards including a Lifetime Achievement Award for his efforts in the industry. Fukasaku film regulars Nobuo Kaneko and Hiroki Matsukata also star, along with Ken Nishida and Japanese pop-idol Teruhiko Saigo who cameos as Asano. While there's a cast of hundreds, it's worth noting the guest appearance by the amazing Toshiro Mifune – although fans need not get too excited. Appearing briefly as the neighbour of Kira in the final attack scene, the legendary actor had appeared in many other adaptations of the story throughout his career as more prominent characters – but it was great to see him on-screen nonetheless.
Backed by a dramatic and memorable score by Kinji Fukasaku regular, composer Toshiaki Tsushima, and penned by Koji Takada – the man behind a number of Sonny Chiba titles – there's a lot to love in The Fall Of Ako Castle to keep viewers gripped without noticing its lengthy 159 minute running time pass. And although the outlining premise of the story may seem quite simple, the emotional drama involved with many of the characters, including the simple townsfolk, such as divorce, abandoning the town, and dissolution, helps makes the story so much more than just another samurai revenge mission that really makes you sit up and take notice. With films like The Fall Of Ako Castle, I've always felt that there was something incredibly special about this period of Japanese cinema, along with many before it and some after, and while we still get many great movies today from the land of the rising sun, it's only fair to say that they just don't make them like this any more!
Overall: Stunningly shot, wonderfully acted, and beautifully directed, The Fall Of Ako Castle is a solid retelling of a legendary tale that is now one of my favourite Fukasaku films!
Eureka Video Blu-ray Extras: New HD Restoration, Audio Commentary with Tom Mes, Interview with Tony Rayns on The Fall Of Ako Castle, King Of My Castle Video Essay by Jasper Sharp
Get your copy HERE
Watch my unboxing video for this Eureka Video release HERE
FAMILY HONOUR
(Hong Kong 1990)
Original Title: Wu Ming Jia Zu
Directed by Norman Law Produced by Barry Wong, Norman Law Action by Tong Leung Siu Hung Starring: Wilson Lam, Dick Wei, Joey Wong, Shing Fui On, Max Mok, Richard Ng, Michael Miu, Ben Ng, Blacky Ko, Lo Lieh, Barry Wong, Lam Kai Wing, Dion Lam, Ka Lee, Ronald Wong, Lisa Chiao, Meg Lam Reviewing: YouTube Release Genres: Martial Arts / Action / Thriller / Drama
Rating - 4 / 5
Synopsis: Tao is a ruthless loan shark, whose brother (Fu Sai Hang) is the captain of the police. When Tao gets killed by some local gangsters Fu sets-out for revenge, aided by his girlfriend (Hor Yee) to bring down the gangsters and get justice for Tao! (98 Mins)
Views: Norman Law's 1990 action-thriller is a film similar in vein to many Hong Kong films of this time, such as The Dragon Family with Alan Tam and Andy Lau, or Frankie Chan's brilliant Burning Ambition, made just the year before. The fantastic Shing Fui On plays Tao, a loud mouthed loan shark who finds himself in trouble with some local gangsters – as well as the cops. As it happens, his brother Fu just happens to be a captain in the police force, something that often causes rifts in their family life. As Fu tries to grow his new found relationship with Hor Yee, their love is pushed to brink when Tao's antics start to involve his potential in-laws. A corrupt officer (Koo) who has it in for Tao, abuses his power to make Fu's life a nightmare, from harassing his informants to fighting with him outside of work. After one of Fu's gangster suspects escapes custody, Koo takes it upon himself to interrogate Fu and land him in a lot of trouble – setting him up to get at his brother, Tao. As things snowball out of control fast, Fu soon learns that his escaped suspect (Wei) is the same man who murdered both his informant Chung and brother, and sets-out for revenge along with his girlfriend and family members in a fantastic and lengthy showdown at the docks!
While the late Norman Law Man isn't always the first directors name you would think of when talking about Hong Kong cinema, it would probably surprise most fans in knowing what he has been behind. Starting life in the film industry as a make-up artist in Shaw Brothers, Law ran a 4 year stint as the assistant director to Yuen Woo Ping with Seasonal Films on classics such as Secret Rivals 2, Invincible Armour, Drunken Master, and more. After working on Tower Of Death (Game Of Death 2) in 1980, Law stepped up to deliver his directorial debut with Lackey And The Lady Tiger, produced by Ng See Yuen and starring the wonderful Hwang Jang Lee along with Mars in the leading role. From there, Law would follow with a string of great films including A Hearty Response with Chow Yun Fat, Walk On Fire with Andy Lau, (Ninja) Vampire Buster with Jacky Cheung, Kung Fu Scholar with Aaron Kwok, and many more, as well as working as a planner on most of Wong Kar Wai's mid-90s titles...
Aside from being neatly directed and well-written, Family Honour boasts a great cast with Wilson Lam playing Officer Fu, the unfortunate brother to Shing's loan shark, Tao. Although he gets to kick things off as a light-hearted character of sorts, Fu's story soon takes a dark turn giving Lam the chance to flex his acting chops between comedy and drama. While I've never been the biggest fan of Wilson Lam's, I can't say he really does a bad job – and especially here. From The Fortune Code to Magic Cop, Angel Force to Kickboxers Tears, it's fair to say that Lam can be a decent actor when called for, even getting in on the action where possible. Shing Fui On, who I miss dearly, adds a little more depth to the usual thug-like character he is most often known for, flitting between violence and funny without a problem. Although he died in 2009 and starred in over 230 movies, I do miss seeing him pop up in more modern Hong Kong movies. Michael Miu Kiu Wai plays Officer Koo, the pain-in-the-ass detective who seems to cause everyone trouble and thrives in playing a darker role than he would more normally be known for. The awesome Dick Wei stars as the main villain of the piece, although flits in and out until the finale where he gets to proves to be a force to be reckoned with. The handsome Max Mok gets an interesting extended cameo as Chung, an informant friend to Fu whose cover has been blown and meets his end after a violent death by the hands of Wei. A wonderful supporting cast help strengthen the film even more with the hilarious Richard Ng, Meg Lam, and wonderful Lisa Chaio Chiao playing family members. Lo Lieh cameos as a triad boss, with Ronald Wong and Laung Sap Yat as Tao's sidekicks. Script writer and producer of Family Honour, Barry Wong, cameos as an ICAC Officer, and popular comedic character-actor Kay Lee (aka Curry Lau) also appears. And I can't forget the gorgeous Joey Wong of course, who plays Lam's girlfriend Hor Yee. While mainly by his side for more dramatic scenes, Wong gets in on the action in the grand finale and continues to look good doing it.
The brilliant Tony Leung Siu Hung looks after the action, providing a nice mix of violence and martial arts in that late 80s/early 90s way we all love. From rooftop scuffles to alleyway battles, gangster beatings to car-park fights, Leung keeps action fans happy with some pretty sweet choreography. It all leads to a massive closing battle with some incredible gun-play, lots of explosions, fire stunts, martial arts, and stunt work, that leaves action-fans extremely happy and closes Family Honour with a finale worth talking about! Brother to the legendary Bruce Leung Siu Hung, Tony has been behind the action of some of my favourite Hong Kong movies as a director or action choreographer, with titles such as Guns Of Dragon, In The Line of Duty 3, Magic Crystal, Angel, The Tigers, and even Ip Man – as well as appearing in many classics like Enter The Fat Dragon, 36 Crazy Fists, Five Superfighters, The Master Strikes, Ip Man 1 & 3, and much more. Family Honour is a worthy addition to his filmography, and a fantastic film overall...
Overall: Hard hitting Hong Kong action-thriller that is neatly directed and well worth checking out!
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FEARLESS HYENA 2
(Hong Kong 1983)
Original Title: Long Teng Hu Yue 龍騰虎躍 (aka) Superfighter 2
Directed by Chan Chuen Produced by Lo Wei Action by Chui Fat, Jackie Chan Starring: Jackie Chan, Austin Wai, James Tien, Yen Shi Kwan, Kwon Yeong Moon, Chen Hui Lou, Pearl Lin, Hon Kwok Choi, Peng Gang, Dean Shek, Ma Chiang,Chui Fat Reviewing: 88 Films UK Blu-ray Release Genres: Kung-Fu / Comedy / Drama
Rating - 3.5 / 5
88 Films UK Blu-ray Synopsis: By the early 1980s, Jackie Chan's popularity made him box-office gold. Thus when, midway through filming the sequel to his hit The Fearless Hyena, Chan walked off the production to defect to rival studio Golden Harvest, producer Lo Wei opted to complete the film with the help of stunt doubles and recycled footage. The result – the tale of two lazy cousins (Chan and Austin Wai Tin-chi) who join forces to avenge the deaths of their fathers – may not be pure Chan, but there are plenty of loony pleasures (including our hero fighting an adversary with his feet!) to be had. (92 Mins)
Criterion US Blu-ray Release: By the early 1980s, Jackie Chan's popularity made him box-office gold. Thus when, midway through filming the sequel to his hit The Fearless Hyena, Chan walked off the production to defect to rival studio Golden Harvest, producer Lo Wei opted to complete the film with the help of stunt doubles and recycled footage. The result – the tale of two lazy cousins (Chan and Austin Wai Tin-chi) who join forces to avenge the deaths of their fathers – may not be pure Chan, but there are plenty of loony pleasures (including our hero fighting an adversary with his feet!) to be had. (91 Mins)
Eastern Heroes UK DVD Synopsis: After the huge box office success of 'FEARLESS HYENA' it was to be inevitable that the producers would spawn a sequel. With two new great villains Heaven & Earth and brimming with fast paced slick martial arts fighting, 'FEARLESS HYENA 2' actually delivers a much more satisfying movie than its predecessor. 'FEARLESS HYENA 2' did not have the same impact at the box office largely due to the fact that Jackie was unable to commit to the movie due to other projects and so 'out-takes' from the original film were 'cut-in' to create more screen time for the up and coming star. But like a fine wine, as audiences have matured towards Kung Fu films, we can recognise that despite Jackie's absence, the movie still delivers accomplished fight action that rivals the original. (87 Mins)
Solid Gold Video UK VHS Synopsis: Jackie Chan stars again in the sequel to his famous box office success. Follow him and his brother as they set out to avenge the death of their father. Confronted with tumultuous odds, their hatred for their fathers killer carries them along on their quest for vengeance, until the almighty final fierce climax! (91 Mins)
Views: Known as Superfighter 2 in Germany and often hailed as a Jackiesplotation film or kung fu oddity, Fearless Hyena 2 has long been torn to shreds by critics and fans alike for multiple reasons. But recent 2K restorations of this unsung classic have shone a new light on it, urging today's audience to give it another chance and proving itself to be a highly entertaining kung-fu comedy overall. In an unrelated story to the first Fearless Hyena, the Heaven & Earth Devils are attempting to wipe out the Ching family and their kung fu style, almost completing their quest until two of the Ching brothers escape with their sons. But after 15 years of hiding, the Heaven & Earth Devils soon catch up with the Ching brothers and their young adult sons, resulting in the deaths of the two elderly fathers and forcing the young cousins into battle for revenge!
When the late Willie Chan left the Lo Wei Motion Picture Company to join Golden Harvest, he advised Jackie Chan to decide for himself whether or not to stay. Although he began work on the movie at the end of 1979, Jackie then broke his contract and left to join Golden Harvest where he would immediately go into directing The Young Master – something of which, it is said, that he had already been doing double-duties on at the time. Lo Wei responded with Triad threats that put Jackie in the line of fire, and it's no secret that the dispute was resolved with the help of the late and legendary Jimmy Wang Yu which allowed Chan to stay with Golden Harvest – albeit with a small debt owed that would later see him appear for Jimmy in films such as Fantasy Mission Force and Island Of Fire, respectively. But before he left the production, Lo Wei had managed to capture just under 30 minutes of footage with the fast rising kung-fu star, although this would only accumulate to a third of the actual movie overall. In order to complete the movie, Lo would re-write the story to introduce a secondary character, to allow for the focus to shift away from Jackie before the grand finale would bring them both together. But most notably, he hired stunt doubles to take Chan's place for the remainder of the movie, combining that with alternative takes and re-used footage from the first Fearless Hyena movie as well as from Spiritual Kung Fu and Dragon Fist. Of course, a similar technique was used on other Jackie Chan films such as Master With Cracked Fingers which was re-cut from Cub Tiger From Kwantung, and also in Fire Dragon which was re-cut from Fantasy Mission Force confusingly.
When he's not on screen, Jackie is doubled with two stand-ins, one that dresses in costume and paints his nose red in a nod to how his character from the first would often get by, and the other that wears fake facial hair – with this guy proving to be as equally talented as fighter than Chan himself. Starring alongside all the Jackie's is the wonderful Austin Wai Tin Chi (brother to Shaw Brothers queen Kara Hui) who had previously starred with Sammo Hung in films like The Shaolin Plot, Iron Fisted Monk, Invincible Kung Fu Master and Bruce Lee's Game Of Death as well as classics like The Fatal Flying Guillotines, 36th Chamber Of Shaolin, Avenging Eagle, Kung Fu Vs Yoga, and Five Super Fighters among many more. Popular Hong Kong film star Hon Kwok Choi appears once again as the comedy sidekick, oddly going by the name of Frog – the same character name he was known by when he starred in Jackie Chan's Cub Tiger From Kwantung back in 1973. It's also worth noting his appearance in Aces Go Places 1 & 2 from this period, since its catchy score is used throughout here alongside tunes from Raiders Of The Lost Ark and others.
South Korean actress Im Eun Joo, also known as Pearl Lin, stars in her last Hong Kong film role as a kick-ass member of the Beggar Clan, and had previously starred alongside Chan in the fantastic Dragon Fist under Lo Wei's direction. South Korean super-kicker Kwon Yeong Moon, who had starred alongside Austin Wai in The Shaolin Plot and Jackie Chan in Master With Cracked Fingers, co-stars as one of the big baddies and killer kung-fu fighter. Of course, as this was shot in 1979, he would go on to star with Jackie two more times in both Dragon Lord and in Project A the same year this was released. Prolific actor and choreographer Peng Gang returns once again for s fun role and fight scene, having previously appeared in Jackie's Lo Wei titles such as Snake & Crane Arts Of Shaolin, Spiritual Kung Fu, Half A Loaf Of Kung Fu, Dragon Fist, and the first Fearless Hyena – going on to work with him once again in Dragon Lord, one last time. In fact, a number of stars from the first return including the great James Tien and Chen Hui Lou who play the fathers of Jackie and Austin Wai, heading up the Beggar Clan one more time in a very similar take to their roles in the previous film.
The hard hitting and always impressive Yen Shi Kwan delivers another great villainous role alongside the aforementioned Kwon Yeong Moon as the Heaven & Earth Devils, and the late Dean Shek returns as the brother of his previous character from part one – this time playing a restaurant manager in a 10 minute scene that would go onto be cut from the original French release just like before. Kung Fu movie fans should also keep an eye out for familiar faces such as the popular Ma Chiang, who previously played Iron Head in Fearless Hyena, as a member of the Beggar Clan along with stars such as Wang Chi Sheng, Mickey Ng Mai Kei, Wong Chi Wai, Chin Wan Che, and Clement Yeh. The talented Chui Fat, who starred in over 150 films including countless Shaw Brothers titles and Jackie's own Dragon Fist, stars as the Master of the Fist King School while doubling duties as the films fight choreographer. Over the years, Chui has delivered some incredible action in martial arts classics such as Kung Fu Vs Yoga, Kid From Kwantung, Five Superfighters, The Master, The Innocent Interloper, Thunder Run, and Dreaming The Reality, as well as Donnie Yen's brilliant Crystal Fist, Cheetah On Fire, and Holy Virgin Vs Evil Dead, among many others. Of course, Fat would go on to direct his one-and-only feature with the hugely underrated 13 Cold Blooded Eagles starring Cynthia Khan...
Here, Chui delivers some incredible pieces of fight action with the 2K restorations highlighting his work even better than before. The opening 5 minutes alone whets the appetite when the Devils dish out a fast-and-furious attack on the Ching Family Manor, before going fist-to-toe with Tien and Chen at the riverside. There's a hilarious fight at a temple between Jackie and a feisty local after he proves to be a bad loser during a bet which is typically Chan, and genuinely funny at times, resulting in our hero defeating his foe by using his stinky feet and some trick moves. Around the halfway mark, viewers are treated to a fantastically choreographed showdown when the Heaven & Earth Devils attack the Beggar Clan, followed by the awe-inspiring battle in a burning house between the same villains and James Tien. While it just randomly appears (almost as if the start of their fight had been cut from the film) it still proves to be one of the highlights of the film as the three actors fight amongst the (very real) fire! The final third is introduced with a hugely exciting and wonderfully choreographed fight between bearded 'fake' Jackie and the Beggar Clan. This is another highlight of the film for me, with the actor in question proving to be as fast and nimble as the man he is portraying – in fact, it's difficult to confirm, but I do believe this particular stand-in may be the hugely talented Wang Chi Sheng; an actor and choreographer who knew Jackie's movements well having appeared with him in films such as New Fist Of Fury, The Hand Of Death, To Kill With Intrigue, Snake & Crane Arts Of Shaolin, Dragon Fist, Fearless Hyena, and Dragon Lord, as well as many other fantastic kung-fu classics. A clever edit later sees the real Jackie return to fight with them the following day, eventually coming to blows with Pearl Lin at the Inn where he is staying. A few more fights follow allowing Austin to bust a move when he is attacked at a kung-fu school, then Hon Kwok Choi going up against the villains by himself, and the Devils launching a deadly attack on Pearl Lin and Chen Hui Lou at their home. But it all comes to a close with a cleverly edited and exciting grand finale that effectively blends re-used shots and alternate takes from Fearless Hyena's last battle, with tightly worked new footage featuring a (possible third) Jackie double and the impressive Austin Wai in action.
The film was mostly shot in Taiwan and was nicely captured by Yau Kei, the cinematographer behind films such as The 14 Amazons, Bamboo House Of Dolls, Dragon On Fire, Zen Kwun Do Strikes In Paris, and The Man From Holland among many more, and brilliantly edited by the talent and prolific Vincent Leung – who was clearly the right man for the job with an eye for grabbing previous shots of Jackie since he had edited the original Fearless Hyena as well as most of Jackie's other Lo Wei efforts. Oddly enough, Leung would go on to edit many of Godfrey Ho and IFD Films' infamous cut-n-paste ninja movies, among many others. Interestingly, in past interviews, Jackie had mentioned that the end product of Fearless Hyena 2 was so bad that he even tried to stop its release by taking legal action, although Lo Wei eventually managed to release it 1983 regardless. It's a battle that mirrored that of Hollywood action-star Chuck Norris who had went through his own fight around the same time when Golden Harvest put Yellow Faced Tiger out in the US as Slaughter In San Francisco. Ironically, that was also directed by Lo Wei. But truth be told, there's actually a lot to enjoy in Fearless Hyena 2 from the broad comedy elements to the fantastic kung-fu action on offer – whether it's with the real Jackie Chan or not – which clearly saves it from becoming a complete write-off for kung-fu movie fans!
Overall: Packed full of great kung-fu action and neatly made, Fearless Hyena 2, is an entertaining and satisfying classic that deserves to be seen!
88 Films Blu-ray Extras: 2K Remaster, Audio Commentary with Frank Djeng & F.J. DeSanto, Fake Shemps Video Essay, Export Opening Credits, Japanese Theatrical End Credits, Hong Kong Trailer, Japanese Trailer, Stills Gallery
Criterion Blu-ray Extras: 2K Remaster, Trailer
Eastern Heroes DVD Extras: Jackie Chan Interview, Trailer
Get your copy HERE
Watch my unboxing video for this 88 Films release HERE
Watch my video retrospective on this film HERE
FIST OF LEGEND
(Hong Kong 1994)
Original Title: Jing Wu Ying Xiong 精武英雄
Directed by Gordon Chan Produced by Jet Li Action by Yuen Woo Ping Starring: Jet Li, Chin Siu Ho, Billy Chow, Yasuaki Kurata, Nakayama Shinobu, Ada Choi, Paul Chun, Yuen Cheung Yan, Kenji Tanigaki Reviewing: 88 Films 4K UHD Release Genres: Martial Arts / Drama / Historical
Rating - 5 / 5
88 Films 4K UHD Synopsis: A stunning reinvention of Bruce Lee's time 1972 classic, Fist of Fury, Fist of Legend is considered by many to be the greatest Kung Fu movie of all time! In the most electrifying performance of his celebrated career, international superstar, Jet Li, plays Chen Zhen – he matchless student of China's preeminent Kung Fu master, Fok Yun Gap. Upon returning home to Shanghai after a period of study abroad, he discovers that his homeland has been devastated by a brutal Japanese occupation, and that his once proud martial arts academy has fallen into disarray following the untimely demise of his beloved Master – allegedly in a challenge match with a member of the Japanese Black Dragon Clan. Disgusted by the official verdict on his teacher's death, Chen embarks on a heroic and uncompromising one-man quest to uncover the true killer and restore dignity to his fallen people – a journey that will bring him into deadly confrontation with Japan's most formidable fighters. (103 Mins)
Cineasia/Dragon Dynasty UK Blu-ray Synopsis: A stunning reinvention of Bruce Lee's time 1972 classic, Fist of Fury, Fist of Legend is considered by many to be the greatest Kung Fu movie of all time! Jet Li plays Chen Zhen – the matchless student of China's preeminent Kung Fu master, Fok Yun Gap. Upon returning home to Japanese-occupied Shanghai after a period of study abroad, Zhen is devastated to discover that his beloved Master has been mysteriously killed – allegedly in a challenge match with a member of the Japanese Black Dragon Clan. Disgusted by the official verdict on his teacher's death, Chen embarks on a heroic one-man quest to uncover the true killer – a journey that will bring him into deadly confrontation with Japan's most formidable fighters. Showcasing exceptional action-choreography from the ace martial arts director of The Matrix Trilogy & Kill Bill, Fist of Legend is a brilliant masterpiece that has been awarded iconic status by fans across the world. (99 Mins)
Dragon Dynasty US DVD Synopsis: Widely regarded as the greatest film of two legendary careers, Fist of Legend teams superstar Jet Li with martial arts choreographer Yuen Wo-ping (The Matrix) for “some of the best fight sequences you will ever see” (Dan Mitchell, IGN Movies). In this tribute to Bruce Lee's classic The Chinese Connection (aka Fist Of Fury), Li radiates sheer power and coolness as a kung fu phenom living abroad who returns home to avenge the death of his master and save his martial arts school. Shifting effortlessly among diverse fighting styles, Li even fights blindfolded and wields his belt as a deadly weapon. Fist of Legend is essential viewing for any Jet Li fan and “the promised land for kungfu cinema” (HongKongCinema.com). (103 Mins)
Made In Hong Kong UK VHS Synopsis: The epic tale of an honorable man's heroic battle against a corrupt nation. Martial arts big screen superstar and world-beating Wing Chun ace Jet Lee (“Once Upon A Time In China”, “Lethal Weapon 4”) rightly inherits Bruce Lee's mantle in this remake of the masters 1972 box-office smash “Fist Of Fury”. Set in Shanghai at the turn-of-the-century, fantastically choreographed and boasting an extraordinary soundtrack, “Fist Of Legend” blasts classic kung fu action into the nineties with a vengeance. (98 Mins)
Views: While it has long been considered as one of Jet Li's finest movies and been a favourite of many Western fans since its release back in 1994, Fist Of Legend was considered a box office failure upon its initial release in Hong Kong – taking in only half of what Jet Li's very own Fong Sai Yuk had scored during it's release the previous year. Returning to Shanghai after hearing about his teachers mysterious death, Chen Zhen makes it his duty to find out what really happened as he goes up against the occupying Japanese forces and their wicked General Fujita!
Hailed as a reworking of Bruce Lee's groundbreaking Fist of Fury, (aka) The Chinese Connection, Jet Li's Fist Of Legend was only one of a host of remakes and spin-offs that quickly followed the 1972 classic. While Bruce Li starred in unrelated sequels such as Fist Of Fury 2 and Fist Of Fury 3 respectively, original director Lo Wei would deliver his own directed sequel with a young Jackie Chan in New Fist Of Fury; with Chan having previously appeared in the original as a stunt double. But in amongst these, many film-makers would help fuel the Brucesplotation train with countless films and variations that often tried to imitate or pay homage to Lee's work. Some of the most enjoyable would be from Stephen Chow Sing Chi with the hilarious Fist Of Fury 1991 and its sequel which followed just a year later, and the unstoppable Donnie Yen in Andrew Lau's loosely related sequel, Legend Of The Fist: The Return Of Chen Zhen, in 2010 – a film that somewhat plays more like a sequel to Fist Of Legend, and saw Yen return to the role of Chen Zhen after starring in as him in the popular Hong Kong television show back in 1995.
Fist Of Legend was directed and co-written by Gordon Chan, the man behind hit films such as Fight Back To School 1 & 2, Royal Tramp 1 & 2, King Of Beggars, Thunderbolt, Beast Cops, 2000 AD, The Medallion, Painted Skin, and The Four Trilogy among many others. Here, Chan takes his film in a new direction – avoiding the generic remake tropes while aiming to show both sides of the coin as he veers away from making every Japanese character a villain, and shows that even the Chinese people have badness among them. Interestingly, this would be the only film that would see Gordon direct Jet Li. While the star himself would produce the film as well as take the lead, the production would also benefit from having the legendary Yuen Woo Ping on-board as the action-choreographer...
Having just worked with Jet the year before on the incredible Tai Chi Master, and prior to that on Once Upon A Time In China 1 & 2 and Last Hero In China, Woo Ping delivers some of his finest work ever with minimal wire-work and plenty of wonderfully choreographed martial arts action, with its opening fight scene bearing some similarities – or paying homage to – the fight action seen in Akira Kurasawa's classic Red Beard from 1965. Incidentally, Jet himself would pay homage to his own character here by way of fighting with a belt in the entertaining Stephen Tung Wei movie, Hitman, just a few years later, as well as recreating a similar dojo battle in the fantastic Kiss Of The Dragon. While it is said that his work here confirmed Yuen Woo Ping's place in Hollywood for the ground-breaking Matrix movies, the pair would later join forces as star and action-director on films such as Black Mask, Unleashed (aka) Danny The Dog, The Forbidden Kingdom, and Ronny Yu's epic Fearless – a film that would see Jet play the historical folk hero, Huo Yuan Jia, who was Chen Zhen's late teacher here in Fist Of Legend, of course.
Starring alongside Jet is the hugely underrated and handsomely talented Chin Siu Ho, brother to Chin Kar Lok and star of films such as House Of Traps, Mr. Vampire, The Seventh Curse, New Kids In Town, Visa To Hell, Rigor Mortis and many more. Here, Chin plays Jet's martial arts school brother and jealous rival, a role he had previously played alongside him in the aforementioned Tai Chi Master under Yuen Woo Ping – although is saved from turning over to the dark side by the efforts of Jet's actions. They are joined by the fantastic and legendary Yasuaki 'Shoji' Kurata, the Japanese martial arts star who has been the highlight of many Hong Kong movies including Four Riders, Heroes Of The East, Legend Of A Fighter, Twinkle Twinkly Lucky Stars, Millionaires Express, Eastern Condors, and so much more. Fan favourite and ultimate Hong Kong cinema bad guy, Billy Chow, impresses once again as the powerhouse Japanese General who gives Jet a run for his money – going onto face off against him again in films such as High Risk and Dr. Wai & The Scriptures With No Words – while actors such as the prolific Paul Chun, Ada Choi, Wong San, Jackson Lau, and highly praised action-choreographer Kenji Tanigaki, also co-star throughout. The always enjoyable Yuen Cheung Yan appears as a police captain, doubling up duties in the action department as he assists his big brother Woo Ping, along with their younger sibling Yuen Shun Yi and protege Dee Dee Ku.
While the film has seen several cuts over the years, from the original Hong Kong version to the extended Taiwanese version, and shorter international cut, the fight scenes have always been kept in their entirety for the most part. These are backed by a great score from the late Joseph Koo, the prolific composer who also scored Bruce Lee's original film, and the same man who brought tunes to the likes of Lee's own Way Of The Dragon, Lady Whirlwind, A Man Called Tiger, The Fate Of Lee Khan, The Dead & The Deadly, Kung Fu Cult Master, and many more. Currently hitting its 30th birthday and treated with a wonderfully new 4K restoration courtesy of 88 Films, Jet Li's Fist Of Legend continues to prove its worth as one of Hong Kong cinemas finest martial arts epics, and will forever stay a favourite for many Hong Kong film fans for many years to come!
Overall: One of Jet Li's best and packed full of impressive martial arts battles, Fist Of Legend is a modern classic of Hong Kong cinema and definitely worth watching!
88 Films 4K UHD Extras: 4K Restoration, Audio Commentary with Frank Djeng, Interviews with Gordon Chan, Chin Siu Ho, Yasuaki Kurata, A Look at Fist of Legend with Brett Ratner & Elvis Mitchell, Karate Seminar with Yasuaki Kurata, Deleted Scenes, Trailer Gallery, Alternative Cantonese Track
Cineasia/Dragon Dynasty Blu-ray Extras: Audio Commentary with Bey Logan, Interviews with Gordon Chan, Chin Siu Ho, Yasuaki Kurata, A Look at Fist of Legend with Brett Ratner & Elvis Mitchell, Karate Seminar with Yasuaki Kurata, Deleted Scenes, Trailer Gallery
Dragon Dynasty DVD Extras: Audio Commentary with Bey Logan, Interviews with Gordon Chan, Chin Siu Ho, Yasuaki Kurata, A Look at Fist of Legend with Brett Ratner & Elvis Mitchell, Karate Seminar with Yasuaki Kurata, Deleted Scenes, Trailer Gallery
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FIST OF UNICORN
(Hong Kong 1973)
Original Title: Qi Lin Zhang 麒麟掌 (aka) Bruce Lee and I; The Unicorn Palm; Bruce and I; Force of Bruce Lee's Fist
Directed by Tang Ti Produced by Kuk Shing Hwa Action by Unicorn Chan, Bruce Lee Starring: Unicorn Chan, Hwang In Shik, Mang Hoi, Yasuaki Kurata, Mars, Ji Han Jae, Chin Ti, Tang Ti, Alexander Grand, Tina Chin Fei, Jackie Chan Reviewing: Cargo Movies German DVD Release Genres: Kung Fu / Drama / Comedy
Rating: 3.3 / 5
Cargo Movies German DVD Synopsis: His strongest film: He broke the chains of the karate stars and created his own film about a man who sets out to avenge his father's death. BRUCE LEE AND I is a large-scale, dramatic film, full of explosive action, as strong as a Leone Western. A worthwhile cinema evening for you too, who discovers a new, great piece of cinema with this films. Do you know this idol of millions? It's a young athletic karate fighter from Hong Kong: BRUCE LEE! He became a world star with just a few films, went to the USA with a $2 million fee and died and became a legend like JAMES DEAN. A real BRUCE LEE! Also in a supporting role: superstar JACKIE CHAN! (89 Mins)
Soulblade UK DVD Synopsis: Lung (Unicorn Chan), a peaceful traveller befriends a young boy named Tiger (Mang Hoi – The Gambling Ghost, The Buddha Assassinator), and accepts an invitation to stay with the boy and his mother. The two new friends visit an acrobatic martial arts show, whilst there, Wong, son of a local gang leader, takes a liking to Miao, daughter of the travelling acrobats, he then tries to bully them into a private performance, but this offer is rejected. Tiger seeing this insults Wong, which leads to a kung fu confrontation. Later Sun Thai (Yasuaki Kurata – Legend Of A Fighter, Fist Of Legend) Wong's henchman and his thugs go to retrieve the girl, but accidentally kill most of the performers. Lung find Miao and tries to take her under his protection, but Wong has her successfully kidnapped for his own amusement. Lung and Tiger go to rescue Miao, and once free the trio set on a quest for revenge using the hidden kung fu abilities of the Unicorn Palm. Fist Of Unicorn was made in 1972 when Unicorn Chan was offered a lead role in the movie on condition that he could arrange for his friend Bruce Lee to co-star alongside. Bruce declined, but agreed to helphis friend on the set and promote the picture. Bruce action choreographed on the movie, whilst in pre-production on The Game Of Death (1972 Uncompleted). Many top name co-stars can be seen in the film, especially from 'Way Of The Dragon', 'Fist Of Fury' and 'Game Of Death'. (82 Mins)
Views: When he parents are killed by a mysterious man, Ah-Lung spends his days in a local temple learning kung-fu to ready himself for revenge. As a young adult, he leaves on his mission to find the limping killer and soon meets a young man called Tiger. The boy invites Ah-Lung to live with him and his mum and later finds himself crossing paths with a gangster known as Wong. After a spate a killings enrages Ah-Lung, the roving warrior agrees to train young Tiger in the martial arts so they can both take revenge for their fallen friends and defeat the thugs!
Having just gained my second copy of Fist Of Unicorn, it came to my attention that I actually had never even watched the first. My original was the UK release from Soulblade – an 82 minute version in letterbox widescreen, presented in its original language with English subtitles. A bonus in my eyes obviously. But then I watched the German DVD release from Cargo Movies which was just over 7minutes longer and a whole other story. In this longer version, the story begins with the murder of Unicorn's parents before cutting to him leaving the temple later in life. Oddly, the UK release doesn't show this and just begins with him arriving at the young kids' house. There's always been a little bit of controversy behind Fist Of Unicorn. After being offered the leading role, Unicorn Chan obtained the services of his lifelong friend Bruce Lee in assisting with the fight choreography. Oddly, the fights aren't really as spectacular as one would imagine. Another favour by Lee, it would seem, would be in having some of his regular co-stars from his past hits appear in the film. Regardless, the producers (and no doubt Unicorn himself) thought it would be a great idea to add some of the behind the scenes footage of Lee directing – something Bruce wasn't too happy about, understandably. That said, once you look past that kinda nonsense, Fist Of Unicorn isn't a bad show overall...
Truth be told, I've never really saw the appeal of Unicorn Chan. Sometimes known as Little Unicorn, the swollen-faced kung-fu star started his career in 1950 as a young Fong Sai Yuk, quickly going onto star in almost 140 films over the following 30 years. While I no doubt caught his smaller roles in Bruce Lee's Fist Of Fury (1972) and Way Of The Dragon (1972) in my younger years, I mostly remember Chan for his role as the main bad guy in the super fun Shaolin Drunk Fighter (1983) which was also one of his last. That said, he clearly had enough of a presence to star in so much and here, in Fist Of Unicorn, he does impress on both a dramatic and physical level. Sadly, the Little Unicorn would pass away at the age of 40 in 1987. Chan's co-star, for the most part, is a young and very cute Mang Hoi – here playing a feisty bald kid named Tiger in what would only be his 6th or 7th role, with the young star would also appear in Lee's own Enter The Dragon that very same year. Of course, many of us know Mang Hoi from countless Hong Kong action classics in the 80s and 90s such as Zu: Warriors Of The Magic Mountain (1983), Yes Madam! (1985), Millionaires Express (1986), Legacy Of Rage (1986), Pedicab Driver (1989) and Lady Reporter (1989) of which he also directed.
Joining them is a cast of many including the incredible Yasuaki 'Shoji' Kurata, the Japanese martial-artist and actor who had been impressing Hong Kong audiences previously in films such as The Angry Guest (1971), The Prodigal Boxer (1972), Four Riders (1972), and Fists Of Vengeance (1973) among others. Of course, Kurata would go onto wow audiences in many modern Hong Kong action movies such as Twinkle Twinkle Lucky Stars (1983), Millionaires Express (1986), Eastern Condors (1987), Fist Of Legend (1994) and So Close (2002), sharing the screen with Mang Hoi many times over the years. The lovely and talented Kitty Meng Chui does a great in the action scenes and stars as the sister of a stuttering, not to mention feisty, young Mars. Perhaps it's worth pointing out that a young Jackie Chan also appears throughout briefly (as a thug), with the future best friends also working together that year on Chan's underrated Cub Tiger From Kwantung (1973), as well as both appearing in Shaw Brothers films Ambush (1971), Village Of Tigers (1971), The Golden Lion (1971), The Black Tavern (1972) and others. Hapkido (1972) star and master, Ji Han Jae, shows up throughout but is never really utilised but for a couple of fights – one of which is an enjoyable showdown with his Korean counterpart and previous co-star Hwang In Shik. Of course, Hwang had also just worked with Bruce Lee the same year in Way Of The Dragon (1972).
Another face from Way Of The Dragon (1972) who also appeared with Bruce Lee in Fist Of Fury (1972), is Alexander Grand – here playing another foreign fighter which he would tend to repeat in a number of Bruceploitation films such as The Dragon Lives Again (1977), Dragon On Fire (1978), The Dragon The Hero (1979), Bruce Vs Bill (1981), and The Clones Of Bruce (1981), among other Hong Kong titles. Prolific actor Chin Ti plays another silly villain, while Fist Of Fury (1972) and Way Of The Dragon (1972) actor, Paul Wei Ping Ao, co-stars as a Japanese gang boss. Tai Chi Hsia impresses as the Matriarch of the street performers, and fan-fave Lee Man Tai cameos briefly in the beginning. And finally, equally prolific actor Tang Ti stars as one of the other big baddies of the piece, Cripple Ho – a smaller role than many while doubling duties as the director of the piece. Although he made his directorial debut in 1960 with Romance In Law & Order, Tang only ever helmed 6 films over a 20 year period with Iron Bull (1973) and Drunken Arts & Crippled Fist (1979) being the only other two I've ever seen...
While hardly groundbreaking, Fist Of Unicorn still proves to be an enjoyable enough kung-fu adventure with a typical revenge storyline, but plenty of fast paced fight action on hand. I'd say that it's connection with Bruce Lee has brought it a lot more notoriety over the years than its own content has managed to do, putting itself out there as one of the earliest and obvious Bruceploitation flicks to some degree – although one I definitely don't need to hurry back to!
Overall: Watchable and entertaining for the most part, Fist Of Unicorn is a standard kung-fu revenge movie that has its moments, but there's no need to rush!
Cargo Movies DVD Extras: Premiere Footage, Trailers, Stills Gallery, Trailer Show
Soulblade DVD Extras: Re-mastered Subtitles, History Essay on Fist of Unicorn, Trailers
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FIST OF THE CONDOR
(Chile 2023)
Original Title: El Puno Del Condor
Directed by Ernesto Diaz Espinoza Produced by Diego Moral, Nicolas Ibieta Action by Wernher Schurmann, Marko Zaror Starring: Marko Zaror, Gina Aguad, Eyal Meyer, Man Soo Yoon, Jose Manuel, Francisco Castro, Fernanda Urrejola Reviewing: Dazzler Media (Private Screener) Genres: Martial Arts / Adventure / Drama
Rating - 3.5 / 5
Synopsis: Upon the empire's fall to invading conquistadors, the 16th century Incas quickly concealed a sacred manual containing the secrets behind their deadly fighting technique. But after centuries of careful safeguarding, the manual is again at risk of falling into the wrong hands, leaving its rightful guardian to battle the world's greatest assassins to protect the ancient secrets within. (80 Mins)
Views: This 2023 martial arts production from Chile makes its UK Blu-ray debut on October 2nd, courtesy of Dazzler Media. Packed with some great martial-arts action, Fist Of The Condor takes its cue from the kung fu classics of yesteryear, as it follows a group of deadly martial artists from around the globe in their search for a sacred Inca manual that contains the ancient secrets of how to surpass the limits of the human body. But to do so, they have to defeat its guardian who is sworn to protect the book at all costs – even if it means spilling the blood of his own brother!
The first time I ever saw Marko Zaror in action was in Undisputed 3: Redemption where he impressed with his moves in a spectacular showdown against Scott Adkins. His role in Robert Rodriguez's fun Machete Kills was pretty exciting, and equally his rematch against Scott a few years later in Jesse Johnson's fantastic, Savage Dog. And although his Hollywood appearances in the awesome Alita: Battle Angel and John Wick 4 were great and hugely impressive in the latter, I've still never really had this Chilean martial artist on my radar like I do with many others – until now that is. With Fist Of The Condor, it's hard to deny what a presence and martial-arts powerhouse Marko really is, and although he has starred in many before this, it's probably fair to say that this locally produced fight-flick may be the one that really lets film fans see what the man can deliver...
Coming in at 85 minutes, Fist Of The Condor is clearly influenced by the kung-fu classics of the late 60s and 70s, and no doubt – dare I say – the earlier works of Bruce Lee; the martial arts legend that inspired Zaror to take up martial-arts at an early age. While I'm certainly not claiming that he is the next Bruce Lee of the cinematic world, I can't deny just how amazing of a martial-artist Marko Zaror actually is, with Fist Of The Condor allowing him to work that to his full potential and in dual roles. Although made on a modest budget, there's still something impressive about this independent production from its gorgeous cinematography and stunning locations, to the many wonderfully choreographed fight scenes that are sure to keep any true fan of martial-arts cinema very happy – although there was maybe a little too many shots of air-spinning moves which, in all honesty, is starting to get a little tiring in movies.
Director Ernesto Diaz Espinoza, who worked with Marko on films such as Mirageman, Kiltro, and Redeemer, does a great job in keeping Latin action cinema alive with their pairing mirroring that of Scott Adkins and Jesse Johnson or Isaac Florentine – and long may it continue. While its not without its flaws, Ernesto does a fine job with Fist Of The Condor delivering a well paced film that should please fans of old-school kung-fu cinema with its search for a secret book, stylised fight scenes, and bad wigs. In fact, it's only fair to say that all the fighters involved move extremely well and add plenty of impact and style to their moves, from its opening battle that really sets the tone for what's to come, to the bar fight that wouldn't look out of place in a Jason Statham movie, and the grand finale which puts two top martial arts performers up against each other in a fight for the book, honour, and the right to use the fist of the condor!
Overall: A great throw-back to the kung-fu classics of yesteryear, Fist Of The Condor doesn't disappoint and is sure to keep fight fans happy with its impressive martial arts battles!
Watch my video review for this movie HERE
FIVE SHAOLIN MASTERS
(Hong Kong 1974)
Original Title: Shao Lin Wu Zu (aka) Five Masters of Death
Directed by Chang Cheh Produced by Run Run Shaw Action by Lau Kar Leung, Lau Kar Wing Starring: Ti Lung, David Chaing, Alexander Fu Sheng, Chi Kuan Chun, Mang Fei, Leung Kar Yan, Fong Hak On, Tsai Hung, Johnny Wang Lung Wei, Chiang Tao, Gordon Liu, Jamie Luk, Lau Kar Wing Reviewing: Arrow Video Shaw Scope UK Blu-ray Release Genres: Traditional Kung-Fu / Drama
Rating - 4 / 5
Arrow Video UK Blu-ray Synopsis (Book): The Qing Emperor fears the martial artists from the Shaolin monastery, and so he gives the orders to burn it down. Most of the inmates who resisted the Manchus are either killed or dispersed. The lucky ones who escape included Hung Xiguan, in addition to five men, who flee to central China. They are Cai Dezhong, Ma Chaoxing, Fang Dahong, Li Shikai, and Hu Dedi. These five heroes try to join forces with other anit-Qing elements in central China. Among the Shaolin men in Ma Fuyi, a traitor, who in league with the Manchu henchman, Chen Wenyao, plots to destroy the Shaolin heroes once and for all. Ma Chaoxing is captured by the traitor, but he refuses to reveal anything. Meanwhile, Hu Dedi, with the help of Chieftain Kao, and the chieftain's followers, rush to the help of Ma Chaoxing. A fierce battle ensues, and Ma is freed, but the brave chieftain dies. The anti-Qing patriots begin to realize that in order to lick the Manchu lackeys, led by Chen Wenyao, Bao Yulong, and others, they must improve their kung-fu skill, because their opponents are also experts in martial arts. Then the patriots return to the gutted monastery, where they spend more than a year perfecting still more kung-fu techniques, such as the 'Crossed Fists', 'Triple Jointed Stick', 'Rolling Technique', 'Tiger Stork Technique', and 'Pole Technique'. The decisive battle is fought, resulting in the complete routing of the Manchu gangsters. But Fang and Li also die martyrs to liberty. The anti-Qing forces are further reinforced by the arrival of fresh troops from admiral Zheng Chenggong of Taiwan. More bitter struggles against the Manchu tyrants follow... (119 Mins)
Dragon Dynasty US DVD Synopsis: Directed by the legendary Chang Cheh (Five Deadly Venoms) and featuring an all-star cast, Five Shaolin Masters is ''one of Chang's best Shaolin films” (Kung FU Cinema). Five students who escape the destruction of the Shaolin Temple must organize a rebellion and train to fight their deadliest opponents. The relentless action, choreographed by Liu Chia Liang (36th Chamber Of Shaolin), shows off many different authentic Shaolin kung fu styles and unique weaponry, making this one of the best cinematic displays of martial arts ever. (116 Mins)
Views: Under orders from the Qing Emperor, the Shaolin Temple is destroyed and set alight by a small army of Manchu villains. A small group of disciples manage to escape the slaughter and spread out across the land to settle in peace, although many are caught and killed by the enemy. But five strong minded and highly skilled Shaolin disciples are determined to make a change, and soon set out to find their brothers in a bid to stop their enemy and save their country. As they begin to roll out their plan and start training, it soon becomes apparent that the disciples had a traitor in their midst all along. Now, they must do what they can to stop the evil Manchu fighters and bring their traitorous brother to justice before he gives away all of their secrets – even if it means fighting to the death. So the heroes return to the ruins of their old home where they study a host of new techniques for over a year, before they set out of revenge against the Manchu thugs!
Widely known as part of Chang Cheh's Shaolin cycle, Five Shaolin Masters plays like a sequel of sorts (or companion piece I should say) to Chang Cheh's Heroes Two, using the same shots of the burning temple and a brief narrative that mentions the characters of that film (where Fu Sheng played Fong Sai Yuk even though he returns here as a new character). It also comes in as a sequel to Cheh's own Shaolin Temple (that was actually made a couple of years later) and continues the tale of how these characters got to this point. This time we follow the story of five Shaolin escapee's – although we know that there are more scattered throughout the story, one of which is a traitor, and many other heroes who give their lives to let the heroes continue their journey. This set-up leads to a slightly uneven first hour that sees the team split up and get into fights, most of whom barely have any real chance to flesh-out their story except for Fu Sheng's character of Ma Chao Xing. It's also an hour that could possibly have been tightened to make things run a little smoother (respectively), before the brothers get back together with the understanding that 'united they stand, divided they fall'. It's at this point that Five Shaolin Masters picks-up and becomes a lot more enjoyable in it's second half. After some extensive training which takes place over a year, the five young masters eventually come face-to-face with the enemy, resulting in a lengthy end battle that's pretty damn enjoyable. To help make the action last, Cheh has the team split-up which allows for each star to have their own finale in reality. This sees some impressive battles with Mang Fei vs Leung Kar Yan, Ti Lung vs Tsai Hung, David Chaing vs Chiang Tao, Fu Sheng vs Wang Lung Wei, and Chi Kuan Chun vs Fong Hak On. Of course, not everyone survives their battle and we get treated to some pretty cruel final blows – most notably when Ti Lung takes the top of Tsai Hung's skull off with his pole. But that kind of violence is just typical of a Chang Cheh flick from this period – as was the homo-eroticism portrayed on-screen with bands of topless, handsome young men, bonding through brotherhood and flexing their muscles.
Also, as with most of Chang's productions from the 1970s, viewers are graced with an incredible cast of stars and Five Shaolin Masters is no exception. Of course, there are the five main heroes of the show played by the wonderful Ti Lung (who is probably my favourite of the lot) had already starred in over 25 Shaw Brothers productions by this stage and had only cemented his place as a leading man just a few years earlier – many of which were alongside his Five Shaolin Masters co-star and good friend, David Chiang, who already had close-to two decades of experience in the film industry before Lung had joined the studio. The third star would be Alexander Fu Sheng, whose character seems to get a little more focus than the rest as well as bringing a little humour to the film. Fu Sheng had only been in the business a couple of years when this film came about, but had a good 10 or 11 titles under his belt for Shaw Brothers including Heroes Two, Men From The Monastery, Shaolin Martial Arts, and the so-so Na Cha The Great. The often forgotten and superb Chi Kuan Chun joins the team in what would only be his third role after Men From The Monastery and Shaolin Martial Arts – all of which were made the same year by director Chang Cheh. And last but not least, the handsome Mang Fei completes the team in his 7th role and first for the Shaw Brothers studios. The infamous Gordon Liu pops up for a brief cameo as an imprisoned Shaolin disciple who, after getting rescued by one of the heroes, sacrifices himself to help them escape. This was still an early role for Liu having played an extra in The Hero Of Chiu Chow, as well as making more of a debut in Breakout From Oppression the year before, and giving a memorable performance in Shaolin Martial Arts which would have been his first for the studio just before this. Of course, only a few years later, Liu would become a huge star in his own right with roles in films such as Challenge Of The Masters and 36th Chamber Of Shaolin. While a host of other recognisable faces show up throughout, including a young Eric Tsang, Jamie Luk, Lau Kar Wing, Chui Fat, and Bruce Tong, the list of baddies is just as impressive as the main stars. Prolific Taiwanese actor Chiang Tao (often known as Kong Do) plays General Chen, the man with the whip-like ponytail who leads the Manchus against the Shaolin heroes. He is backed by the amazing Leung Kar Yan and Fung Hak On. This was only Beardy's (Leung's) second role in the film industry right after his debut in Shaolin Martial Arts for Cheh and, once again, he doesn't fail to impress. For a kung-fu legend that had never learnt any real martial arts, the man comes across as genuine as any true star and steals most of the scenes he appears in. Much like David Chiang, the late Fung Hak On had been acting since the early 50s and quickly grew to become of the most skilled and recognisable kung-fu actors in the business. After many years as an extra or bit-player for the Shaw Brothers studios, Fung's career took a turn for the better in 1973 with more serious roles that even then, saw him star alongside a young Jackie Chan in Chu Mu's Not Scared To Die/ Eagle Shadow Fist. By the time Five Shaolin Masters came about, Fung had worked on many of the studios biggest titles and rarely failed to entertain. Shaw Brothers powerhouse and one of my all time favourite villains, Johnny Wang Lung Wei makes quite the impression as traitor Ma in what would only be his second role after Shaolin Martial Arts much like Leung Kar Yan. Of course, Wang would go on to become a fan favourite of kung-fu fans as well as a successful director in his own right with films such as Hong Kong Godfather, The Innocent Interloper (which I just love), Fury, Angry Ranger, and the infamous Cat.3 flick Escape From The Brothel. And the great Tsai Hung, who went onto star in over 130 films, joins the Manchus as a deadly fighter with a bladed rope. This kung-fu actor had already appeared in almost 50 titles over the course of 4 years before starring in this, including many of Jimmy Wang Yu films such as One-Armed Boxer, Knight Errant, Seaman No.7, and Beach Of The War Gods.
While Wu Yueh Ling assists Chang Cheh with the directing, famed brothers Lau Kar Leung and Lau Kar Wing handle the action. While the former had been in the business as an actor a good decade before his younger brother, the pair quickly made a name for themselves in the film world from acting to directing – and obviously as action-choreographers. And what else would you expect as direct descendants of the legendary Wong Fei Hung? As any well-versed fan of Hong Kong cinema would know, Wong Fei Hung (as most famously portrayed by Jackie Chan and Jet Li) was the teacher of Lam Sai Wing (as portrayed by Sammo Hung in The Magnificent Butcher). Butcher Wing would then go on to teach kung-fu to Lau Jan – the father of Lau Kar Leung and Lau Kar Wing, who would have then taught his sons the ways of the martial arts, respectively. Regardless, the pair manage to produce a bevy of fun fight scenes in Five Shaolin Masters that are spread across its lengthy running time and makes use of their highly skilled cast members, as well as delivering some finely choreographed moves that mixes weapons work with hand-to-hand combat.
While it does have some flaws here-and-there, Five Shaolin Masters still makes for a highly entertaining watch and is still one of the Shaw Brothers best kung-fu movies (and there are a lot). With a memorable score, that is heavily borrowed from many Italian movies of the late 60s/early 70s, the film doesn't exactly offer anything exhilarating and is typically Chang Cheh in many ways – but it does the job in giving fans of old-school kung-fu flicks, plenty to care about. Aside from the Dragon Dynasty DVD release of Five Shaolin Masters, the version of the film I reviewed was released as part of Arrow Video's Blu-ray box-set called Shaw Scope Vol.1, and I have to say that it's never looked better...
Overall: A lot of fun thanks to a great cast and some exciting fight scenes, Five Shaolin Masters is a Shaw Brothers classic that is well worth the watch!
Arrow Video Blu-ray Extras: Appreciation Film of Chang Cheh by Tony Rayns, Interview with Kong Do, Featurettes on David Chiang and Ti Lung, Alternate Opening Credits, Trailers, Image Gallery
DVD Extras: Trailers
Watch my unboxing video of this Arrow Video release HERE
THE FIVE VENOMS
(Hong Kong 1978)
Original Title: Wu Du (aka) Five Deadly Venoms
Directed by Chang Cheh Produced by Runme Shaw Action by Leung Ting, Lu Feng, Robert Tai Starring: Chiang Sheng, Philip Kwok, Sun Chien, Lu Feng, Lo Meng, Wei Pei, Johnny Wang Lung Wei, Dick Wei, Ku Feng Reviewing: Arrow Video Shaw Scope UK Blu-ray Release Genres: Traditional Kung Fu / Thriller
Rating - 5 / 5
Arrow Video Blu-ray Synopsis (Book): The School of Five Venoms is notorious among martial artists for the evil deeds of its disciples. The master of the school Huang Yen has retired from the martial world for years. Before he dies, he feels so guilty about all the evils associated with the name of their school that he orders his youngest disciple Yang Te to go and stop the other disciples from carrying on with their wicked ways, eliminating them if necessary. There are five disciples of the Five Venoms active in the martial world, each of them excelling in a special kind of kung fu named after a venomous animal. These five disciples are Tang,who represents the Centipede, Hung the Snake, Ma the Scorpion, He the Lizard, and Li the Toad. These five disciples from the same school never show their real identities and they do not all know each other. And Yang De, whose mission is first of all to find the five of them, has never even met them or known their real name. Yang De was told by the master before his death that he could find these other disciples through Yuan, a former classmate of the master who is hoarding some treasures that belong to the school. And the master predicted that those five disciples would be after Yuan and the treasure. Two of the disciples, Ma and Ha, have become constables, and another disciple Hung is a rich celebrity in town. Hong joins the first disciple Tang in forcing Yuan to hand over the treasures. When Yuan refuses to do so, they kill him and his whole family. When Ma arrives at the scene, he accidentally finds the map which shows where the treasure is hidden. When Yang De arrives in town, he picks up clues suggesting that Tang might be the killer of Yuan's case,and reports it to He at the Yamen. With the help of Ma's friend Li, the two constables Ma and He arrest Tang. Through their kung fu styles, Yang recognises Tang as the first disciple the Centipede, and Li the fifth disciple The Toad. Ma is actually in league with Hong and Tang to rob Yuan of the hidden treasure. So Ma and Hong bribe the judge and the trial for Tang is put off. Meanwhile, they try to frame Li up as the real murderer. Li resists when Ma tries to arrest him, so that Ma has to use his secret weapon 'the Scorpion darts' thus exposing his identity as the third disciple of the School Of The Five Venoms. The observant Yang De by this time realises that Tang, Hong, Ma, He and Li are the other five disciples he is looking for. Since Li is dead, and He is the only righteous one among the four left, Yang teams up with He and eventually gets rid of Tang, Hong and Ma, thereby accomplishing his mission. (102 Mins)
Views: While not as jam-packed with kung-fu action like most of Chang Cheh's other films would have been, The Five Venoms still stands strong today as one of his finest projects and a genuine classic of Hong Kong cinema. Having returned to Hong Kong from Taiwan just a year or so before, Cheh had brought an end to his own production house – the Shaw Brothers financed, Chang's Film Co – and signed a new 5 year contract with the studio. But even though The Five Venoms had been such a huge hit, along with many of the titles that followed starring the 'Venom Mob' as they became known, Chang's contract was never renewed and by 1983, the legendary director made his last movie for Shaw Brothers with The Weird Man which proved to be a box-office bomb upon release. Not to be put down by his exiting of the studio that he had been the king of for so long, Cheh set-up another company with Hong Kong Chang He Film Co. and with the support of his Taiwanese talent, set out to make Attack Of The Joyful Goddess (which actually proved to do a bit better than his previous title). The fantastic Shanghai 13 would follow that saw him re-team with Jimmy Wang Yu after many years apart, but it seemed like Chang's magic touch was running dry and by 1993 he decided to call it a day with Ninja In Ancient China. The last decade of his career had proved to be an incredibly tough one, but as the director of almost 100 films and over 40 years in the business, it would be safe to say that Chang Cheh gave fans of Hong Kong cinema some of its most treasured titles!
Of course, The Five Venoms is one of those titles and it was also the film that really gave its main actors the boost they needed to become bigger stars. Although some of them had appeared a year or two before in titles such as Chang Cheh's Shaolin Temple, Magnificent Wanderers, The Brave Archer, and Chinatown Kid, The Five Venoms allowed each of them to light-up the screen without being over-shadowed by the likes of Alexander Fu Sheng, David Chaing, or Ti Lung. Even the ever-popular Johnny Wang Lung Wei, who stars as the courtroom official Justice Wang, holds back from busting a move to allow for Cheh's new stars to lead the way. Cutie Pie himself, more widely known as Chiang Sheng, plays Yang De – the apprentice sent out by his dying master to put a stop to the five venoms evil ways. Starting life at the Fu Sheng Drama School in Taiwan, Chiang soon got into the film industry when Chang Cheh founded his own production company under the Shaw Brothers banner. After many supporting roles and appearances as an extra in titles such as Wild Tiger, 18 Shaolin Disciples, The Condemned, Hand Of Death, and New Shaolin Boxers, Chiang got his first real prominent role in Cheh's epic Shaolin Temple that kick-started a strong career at Shaw's from there on. After starring in titles like The Naval Commandos, Magnificent Wanderers, The Brave Archer, and Chinatown Kid, Chiang added a notch to his belt by doubling as the assistant director on The Brave Archer 2 before moving onto The Five Venoms alongside Chan Yau Man (who went on to work as an assistant director on many of Chang Cheh's films afterwards). The year after, Chiang would continue to star and help Cheh with directing as well as turning his hand to that of a martial-arts director – much like the rest of his co-stars would do eventually. Leaving the Shaw Brothers studio with Chang Cheh in the mid 80s, Chiang went onto star in a number of fun titles for a few more years including Attack Of The Joyful Goddess, Five Fighters From Shaolin, Shanghai 13, Ninja Kids: Kiss Of Death (a personal favourite), Ninja USA, and Exciting Dragon, eventually retiring from the screen by '89. Although his career and skills were highly praised and loved by kung-fu fans the world over, Chiang's life in the film industry came to an abrupt halt when his wife forced him to give it up. After their divorce a year later, Chiang soon sank into a world of alcohol and depression, sadly passing at the age 40 in 1991 with a broken heart. His body was found by his friend and co-star Ricky Cheng after lying alone for 3 days. Yang De's dying master is played by the brilliant Dick Wei was, ironically, two years younger than Sheng. This was only Dick's 6th role over 4 years since his debut in The Assignment from Tyrone Hsu in 1974. A few years later he would sign with the Shaw Brothers studio that saw him land roles in The Brave Archer 1 & 2, Chinatown Kid, and Shaolin Hand Lock. In just 3 years, Wei would appear in over 20 titles for the studio before joining Sammo Hung for the amazing Prodigal Son in 1981, going-on to become on of Hong Kong cinemas most treasured bad guys and martial arts stars. Over the years, Dick even tried his hand as an action-choreographer and director on titles such as Visa To Hell, A Killing Order, and the ghost-comedy Xin Gui Da Gui in 2016 alongside Chen Kuan Tai, which has been his final film to date.
The wonderful Philip Kwok leads the way as Constable He Yu, also known as the Lizard Venom. Probably the most popular and successful of all the Venoms, Kwok started his film career with roles in Chang Cheh's The Fantastic Magic Baby, Marco Polo, Boxer Rebellion, and Seven Man Army, also appearing in outside titles such as One-Armed Boxer Vs The Flying Guillotine, Hand Of Death, and The Traitorous. 1976 was a crazy busy year for Kwok, appearing in 10 titles in all including Cheh's own New Shaolin Boxers and Shaolin Temple, going on to follow his friend and co-star Chiang Sheng with the same run of titles (for the most part) over the next few years. After co-directing, choreographing, and starring in Ninja In The Deadly Trap with some of his Venom brothers, Kwok spread his wings when it came to the end of Chang Cheh's contract and appeared in other Shaw studio titles such as Holy Flame Of The Martial World, Demon Of The Lute, and Crazy Shaolin Disciples. As the late 80s crept in, Kwok moved into modern action with memorable roles in The Big Heat, The Peacock King, Seven Warriors, In The Line Of Duty 6: Forbidden Arsenal, Story of Ricky, and the epic Hard Boiled – as well as many others. Of course, Philip had also been keeping himself busy over the years doubling-up as a martial-arts director and action-choreographer which began in the late 70s with Chang Cheh's Ten Tigers Of Kwangtung, The Daredevils, Magnificent Ruffians, and others, before going on to handle the action in many modern hits such as A Chinese Ghost Story with Tony Ching Siu Tung, The Peacock King, Erotic Ghost Story, Tiger Cage 2, Zen Of Sword, The Bride With White Hair 1 & 2, Hard Boiled, and worked with Michelle Yeoh on her international breakthrough role in Tomorrow Never Dies as well as her self-produced adventure, The Touch.
Super-kicker Sun Chien stars in only his 3rd role as Chief Constable Ma, the deadly Scorpion Venom which secured his place in kung-fu cinema and with the Shaw Brothers studio that would see him go on to star in a host of classics such as Crippled Avengers, The Daredevils, Kid With The Golden Arm, House Of Traps, Bastard Swordsman, and so much more. By the mid-80s, Sun would make a move into low budget ninja movies and martial-arts adventure films that saw his career take a bit of a dive, eventually retiring from the scene after a small role in the fun Jackie Chan produced Angry Ranger - of which he also co-directed alongside one of his co-stars, Johnny Wang Lung Wei. Philip Kwok lookalike Lu Feng, stars as the villainous Centipede Venom in what would have been his first real prominent role after starring alongside his brothers in many of the aforementioned titles. While he tried to find some direction after Shanghai 13 and Cheh's departure from the studio, Feng appeared in some fun roles in films like Fight Among The Supers, Ninja Kids: Kiss Of Death, The Demons, Death Ring, Ninja Condors, and a cameo in Cheh's Ninja In Ancient China before retiring from the scene in the mid-late 90s. The brilliant Lo Meng stars as the Toad Venom, and is one of the more exciting performers in my eyes. This accountant-turned-actor joined the Chang Cheh train in Shaolin Temple after he watched introduced to the director by one of the Shaw brothers. Meng followed the same path as the rest, eventually starring in many other titles for Shaw's such as Hex Vs Witchcraft, Lion Vs Lion, Human Lanterns, and Bastard Swordsman. In the mid-80s, he would start appearing in more modern works such as Michelle Yeoh's Magnificent Warriors, Hard Boiled, Return To A Better Tomorrow, Ebola Syndrome, Sex & Zen 3, and the fun Anna In Kung Fu Land – eventually finding a resurgence of sorts in the film world when he was cast as Master Law in Donnie Yen's Ip Man 2, followed by Gallants, The Grandmaster, Vampire Clean-up Department, and returning as Master Law for Ip Man 3 & 4. And finally, popular actor Wei Pei (aka Wai Pak) stars as the Snake Venom. Having been the more experienced actor of the team, starting in 1973 with a role in Pao Hsueh Li's Heroes Of The Underground, Wei would continue to work with his Venom team for another few years until leaving Shaw Brothers for Golden Harvest where he would deliver some memorable roles in films like Last Hurrah For Chivalry, The Magnificent Butcher, Young Master, Cheeky Chap, and The Prodigal Son which would be his final role in film until a brief appearance in 1988. It's clear that Chang Cheh wanted these guys to be the stars, with very few regular Shaw studio names beside them such as the aforementioned Johnny Wang Lung Wei and fan-favourite Ku Feng reduced to more of a supporting player. But of course, I mustn't forget about another new kid on the block – Lau Fong Sai – who went on to star in over 90 productions including many of Chang Cheh's own titles through to Duel To The Death, Project A, Police Story, Magnificent Warriors, Mr. Vampire 3, Gunmen, Triad Story, and Frankie Chan's insane Oh! Yes Sir!!! of which he was also an action-choreographer for, as well as on Iron Angels 3, Black Panther, Legacy Of Rage, and A Better Tomorrow 3...
The Centipede himself, Lu Feng, doubles-up as one of the films fight-directors alongside Leung Ting – director of It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad Kung Fu World!!! - and the popular Robert Tai Chi Hsien, who started working with Cheh as an actor and action-choreographer the year before on The Naval Commandos, The Brave Archer, and Chinatown Kid (although he had been an extra and bit-player in many of his earlier titles also). Between the three of them, and no doubt with a little more input from the main actors involved, they deliver a collection of exciting and highly intricate fight scenes – with the final battle proving to be the highlight of the show as these mysterious anti-heroes battle it out. The film is neatly captured by cinematographers Cho Wai Kei and Kung Mu To, with the former starting his career in the early 70s on titles like The Lady Hermit, The Long Chase, and Ambush. Cho would stick with the Shaw Brothers right through to the mid-80s on titles such as The Flying Guillotine, Mighty Peking Man, Black Magic 1 & 2, and most of the Venom Mob movies with Cheh. After leaving the studio, Cho would become the cinematographer for the likes of Mr. Vampire 2, Armour Of God, Prison On Fire, As Tears Go By, and John Woo's Just Heroes which was made to aid Chang Cheh's retirement. Japanese-born Kung Mu To, whose real name was Yukio Miyaki, started with the Shaw Brothers in the late 1960s with Furukawa Takumi's Black Falcon that was soon followed by 5 titles in 1969 such as The Singing Thief, Return Of The One-Armed Swordsman, The Invincible Fist, Dead End, and Have Sword, Will Travel - all of which were directed by Chang Cheh.
Although he had done it many times before, Chang had the challenge of presenting yet another film to his audience featuring a cast of relatively unknown actors, but at the same time set the bar of what was to come with this new collaboration alongside the Venoms. With Lau Kar Leung knocking it out of the park elsewhere in the studio, Chang's whole presentation and style needed to change and working with these guys definitely gave him the right opportunity to do so. Written by Cheh and the prolific Ni Kuang once again, The Five Venoms delivers a mix of gothic horror and mystery wrapped-up in a strong martial-arts thriller with some great performances from everyone involved – the most of whom got straight to work on Cheh's Crippled Avengers the very same year. While a little different from the majority of Venom films that followed, The Five Venoms is a highly memorable piece that has long been revered by fans of kung-fu cinema around the world. Presented in a 2K restoration as part of Arrow Videos Shaw Scope Vol.1 box set, the film has never looked better and still entertains as much today as it did many decades ago upon release!
Overall: A genuine classic of Hong Kong cinema, The Five Venoms is one of Chang Cheh's finest films and still highly entertains after all these years!
Blu-ray Extras: 2K Restoration, Audio Commentary by Simon Abrams, Interview with Lo Meng, Featurette on Chang Cheh, Trailers, Image Gallery
Watch my unboxing video of this Arrow Video release HERE
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FLAMING BROTHERS
(Hong Kong 1987)
Original Title: Gong Woo Lung Foo Dau 江湖龙虎斗 (aka) Dragon and Tiger Fight
Directed by Joe Cheung Produced by Alan Tang Action by Stephen Tung Wei, Benz Kong Starring: Chow Yun Fat, Alan Tang, Pat Ha, Jenny Tseng, Patrick Tse, Philip Chan, Norman Tsui Siu Keung, James Yi, Fong Yau, Stanley Tong Reviewing: Eureka Video UK Blu-ray Release Genres: Action / Heroic Bloodshed / Drama
Rating: 3.7 / 5
Eureka Video UK Blu-ray Synopsis: A standout Hong Kong crime thriller released amidst the wave of heroic bloodshed films that followed in the wake of John Woo's A Better Tomorrow and Ringo Lam's City on Fire, Flaming Brothers features Alan Tang and Chow Yun Fat (who was quickly rising to superstardom in the late 1980s) as triad brothers determined to protect their criminal operation – and each other – no matter what the cost. Both orphaned at a young age, Cheung Ho-tin (Chow) and Can Wai-lun (Tang) grew up together on the streets, forming a strong bond in their childhood that remains unbroken as they become triad brothers in adulthood. Having recently opened a nightclub together, they begin to feel that they have finally made it. That is,at least, until they become embroiled in a conflict with the ruthless gangster Kao (Patrick Tse) and his right-hand man (Norman Chui), who threaten to take away everything that Tin and Lun have worked for. In equal parts an action-packed thrill-ride and a rumination on the bonds of male friendship, Flaming Brothers boasts a screenplay written by Wong Kar Wai, the celebrated auteur who would go on to write and direct Chungking Express and In The Mood For Love. Eureka Classics is proud to present the film on Blu-ray from a new 2K restoration. (102 Mins)
Hong Kong Legends UK DVD Synopsis: A richly-textured, violent and deeply involving saga of two men who rise to the top of the Hong Kong Underworld despite their humble beginnings as street urchins in Macau. Stunning and visceral, this bold, blood-soaked spectacle resonates heavily on many levels, as it skilfully unravels the inescapable and inevitable fate of two blood brothers who struggle to evade the violent world they have created. Poignant performances from leading-men Chow Yun Fat and Alan Tang combine with Joe Cheung's skilful direction to deliver a powerful but tragic gangland thriller with the brutal realism of 'Scarface' and the emotional intensity of John Woo's magnum opus 'Bullet in the Head'. (98 Mins)
Views: Orphan brothers Alan and Cheung are known throughout their Macau neighbourhood as rascals, causing trouble here and there to survive – but no matter the struggle, their love and bond for each other is unbreakable. As the years pass, both brothers gain a name for themselves as successful triad leaders, running nightclubs and controlling turf while trying to keep a cap on drugs and trouble so as not to mess up. But a rival triad is out to get them and, after a violent shoot-out between gangs, the path of the brothers begins to take a whole new direction – eventually parting for their own reasons. Having to choose between lovers and brothers, the pair eventually come together in a climatic battle and that results in one hell of a bloody finale!
Shot between Hong Kong, Macau and Thailand, Flaming Brothers is a well-made but very underrated classic from the heroic bloodshed sub-genre of Hong Kong cinema. Directed by Joe Cheung – the man behind hits such as Incredible Kung Fu Master (1979) with Sammo Hung and Stephen Tung Wai, Richard Ng's Pom Pom (1984), Yuen Biao's Rosa (1986), Andy Lau's Return Engagement (1990), the fantastic Pom Pom & Hot Hot (1992) with Jacky Cheung and Stephen Tung Wai, and the highly entertaining Kung Fu Wing Chun (2010) that saw it's leading lady Bai Jing, brutally murdered by her husband. Incidentally, this would also be Cheung's last directorial effort to date. And in regards to Stephen Tung Wai, I guess now is probably the best time to talk about his connection with both Flaming Brothers and Joe Cheung. Clearly making an impression with his starring role in Joe Cheung's directional debut, The Incredible Kung Fu Master in 1979, Tung Wai became the action-choreographer of choice for Cheung in the most of his future action films – including The Killer In White (1980), Revenge In Hong Kong (1981), Bet On Fire (1988), 18 Times (1988), Return Engagement (1990), Pom Pom & Hot Hot (1992), The True Hero (1994), and Kung Fu Wing Chun (2010). Here, in Flaming Brothers, Tung is joined by Benz Kong – a regular directing partner who also worked on most of the aforementioned titles and some of Cheung's that Tung Wai couldn't – as well as their third team member, Poon Kin Kwan. Between them, the trio deliver a host of violent action, with many of their gunfights offering more of a realistic feel to them rather than the much loved balletic shoot-outs of John Woo, for example. But as the film comes to it's final chapter, and all involved are restricted to some horse stables, Tung, Kong and Poon deliver a highly impressive grand finale that makes viewers sit up and take notice.
Written by the acclaimed Wong Kar Wai and Jeff Lau, both of whom also serve as the Executive Producers, Flaming Brothers was released by Golden Harvest but made under the banner of In-Gear Film Production which was created by leading man Alan Tang and his brother, Rover Tang. Around this same time, the Tang brothers would produce Haunted Cop Shop 1 & 2 (1988/89) for Jeff Lau, As Tears Go By (1988) for Wong Kar Wai, and films such as (Ninja) Vampire Buster (1989), Return Engagement (1990), Gun n' Rose (1992), the absolutely insane Black Panther Warriors (1993) and Aaron Kwok's Kung Fu Scholar (1994). Of course, Alan Tang had been a big part of the Hong Kong industry long before he began producing. Making his film debut in 1964, the former heartthrob went onto become a huge star throughout the 70s as the lead of many romance movies and dramas. But when the 80s crept in, Tang slowed down his output and starring in films such as New York Chinatown (1982), Yellow Peril (1984), Gangland Odyssey (1990), Requital (1992) and many of his later aforementioned self-produced vehicles. Here, as the older of the two brothers, Alan does a fine job and makes for a great partner to his hugely popular co-star, the irresistible Chow Yun Fat!
Of course, today, this global superstar really needs no introduction, but just in case. Chow had made his film debut in the The Reincarnation (1976), although was firmly cementing a name for himself as one of television's biggest stars. By the time Flaming Brothers had come about, Chow had been working his magic on over 30 other titles including The Bund 1 & 2 (1983), Postman Fights Back (1982), Hong Kong 1941 (1984), as well as 100 Ways To Murder Your Wife, The Seventh Curse, and John Woo's incredible hit A Better Tomorrow in 1986, which would crown him as the king of heroic bloodshed. Of course, just a year later, Flaming Brothers would come into play but this would be only 1 of the 11 films Chow starred in that year alongside the highly entertaining Spiritual Love, Ringo Lam's City On Fire and Prison On Fire, the fun Scared Stiff, Rich & Famous and it's sequel Tragic Hero, Code Of Honour, and A Better Tomorrow 2. Obviously, the star went on to fast become one of Hong Kong's biggest names with further films such as City War (1988), The Killer (1989), God Of Gamblers (1989), Once A Thief (1991), Hard Boiled (1992), and Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon (2000) proving his worth. Naturally, his role here as Cheung is just as entertaining as the rest, as no-one looks cooler than Chow Yun Fat when holding a gun.
Both are joined by a few familiar faces such as the lovely Pat Ha, who stars as Chow's love interest, and Jenny Tseng – the Macau born singer/actress who was married to the late Alexander Fu Sheng – who stars as Alan Tang's better half. The prolific Patrick Tse, father to the much loved action star Nicolas Tse and star of almost 180 movies, stars as the wicked gang boss known as Kao. Cold and sly in his actions, Kao proves to be a big problem for the brothers, eventually coming to blows with them during the grand finale in the stables. He is joined by the great-late Norman Tsui Siu Keung who stars as his right-hand-man, Chiu. It's more of a guest role than anything, but he's always a pleasure to see on screen no matter what. Thai-born actor and director of films such as 10 Magnificent Killers (1977), Witchcraft vs Curse (1991) and Devil of Rape (1992), Fong Yau, also makes an appearance, while cop-turned-actor/writer/director Philip Chan helps flesh things out. All are joined by actors such as James Yi Lui, Lau Shung Fung, Wong Kim Fung, the prolific Gam Biu, Jackie Chan Stunt Team member Sam Wong and acclaimed director Stanley Tong – both of whom turn up as hitmen in Thailand during the scenes there...
Although one of his earlier jobs, the film is beautifully captured by the one-and-only Jingle Ma – director of films such as Hot War (1998), Tokyo Raiders (2000), Seoul Raiders (2005) and Mulan (2009) among others – offering rich visuals that help it lean more towards the style of a Ringo Lam film as opposed to that of John Woo. And while far from perfect, I still believe that Flaming Brothers still has plenty to offer to make it worth checking out. I was very pleased to see that Eureka Video gave it such a gorgeous 2K restoration for it's Blu-ray release here in the UK and Ireland, complete with a number of extra features that helped me love the film even more such as a great audio commentary with Mike Leeder and Arne Venema, a lengthy location guide that revisits as many sites from the movie, and more!
Overall: Neatly directed and well acted, Flaming Brothers may be overlooked as a classic of heroic bloodshed cinema, but Chow fans won't be disappointed with the end result!
Eureka Video Blu-ray Extras: 2K Restoration, Audio Commentary by Mike Leeder & Arne Venema, CFK Location Guide, Archival Interview with Joe Cheung, Alternate English Credits, Trailer
Hong Kong Legends DVD Extras: Audio Commentary by Bey Logan, Interview with Joe Cheung, Trailers
Watch my unboxing video for the Eureka Video release HERE
Support the site by getting your copy HERE
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FOUR RIDERS
(Hong Kong 1972)
Original Title: Si Qi Shi (aka) Hellfighters Of The East; Strike 4 Revenge
Directed by Chang Cheh Produced by Runme Shaw Action by Tong Kai, Lau Kar Leung Starring: David Chiang, Ti Lung, Chen Kuan Tai, Wang Chung, Lily Li, Yasuaki Kurata, Ching Li, Andre Marquis, Lau Kar Wing, Wong Ching, San Kuai, Yuen Woo Ping, Yen Shi Kwan, Fung Hak On, Fu Sheng Reviewing: Black Hill Pictures/Koch Media German Blu-ray Release Genres: Action / Drama / Martial Arts
Rating - 4 / 5
Blu-ray Synopsis: A new dynamic feature film from master director Chang Cheh. Four class fighters in a furious fight. After the hardships at the front, Captain Feng Sia and his friends head to the capital, Seoul, to have fun. He is looking for variety and relaxation in a club whose seductive geishas and hot cocktails promise a lot. But the temple of joy turns out to be the headquarters of the drug mafia; prostitution, blackmail and murder are their business. Captain Feng Sia witnesses the murder of an American GI and becomes a suspect himself. Together with his friends he faces a challenge. (109 Mins)
Views: Shot between Hong Kong and South Korea, Chang Cheh's Four Riders is something of a departure from the directors usual fare with the exception of The Anonymous Heroes from the year before. Set after the Korean war, the story brings together four Chinese soldiers – a kung-fu master, a combat instructor, an explosives expert, and a missile specialist – who come together to take on a drug gang run by a Japanese crime lord. In a sense, there's no real reason to share these descriptions with you, as they never really explore their army skills once they've left; albeit for the fighting styles they've learned of course. Set in 1953, just as the war has come to an end, Cheh slowly brings us in with a few minutes of meandering shots that capture a bleak, snowy Korean winter. As time passes and spring creeps in, we are introduced to Ti Lung who is keen to get out of camp – ripping his stripes off and starting a scuffle with his superior and fellow soldiers. Stealing his general's jeep, Ti heads off towards the city and picks up Wang Chung along the way, another soldier who is going to Seoul to see an injured friend at the hospital (Chen Kuan Tai). At the same time, young soldier David Chiang has become something of a barfly who spends his time at a classy joint called Hello John, where he is looked after by call-girl Lily Lee but can't stop himself from getting into bother when he's had too much to drink. Of course, one thing leads to another and soon the four of them join forces to go up against a deadly drug smuggling ring, ran by Japanese crime boss Yasuaki Kurata and American gangster Andre Marquis – both of whom operate from Hello John!
Although you'd think that Four Riders was really a drama that tells the tale of four young soldiers returning to civilian life, it manages to shake itself up here-and-there with some great action and the dirty dealings of its villains. It also has a few silly moments strewn throughout, but these are mainly down to directorial choices, editing, and the actions of the characters involved. That said, it all flows rather well and keeps its narrative simple enough with Cheh and writer Ni Kuang hoping that viewers will get that connection that the four heroes are portraying the 'four horsemen of the apocalypse' to some degree – but it's never really tapped on that much. Cheh is joined by two young assistant directors who need no introduction – Godfrey Ho and John Woo – famed by their own works as directors later on in life, although on very opposite ends of the scale respectively. Fight directors Lau Kar Leung and Tong Kai return in one of many of the Chang Cheh productions they had worked on this year which included Chen Kuan Tai's incredible breakout film with The Boxer From Shantung, The Water Margin, and Delightful Forest. Although they deliver a scattering of fun scuffles throughout, its got to be the blistering 20 minute finale that is the standout moment for all involved. While Chiang holds his own at the nightclub, where he faces off against a small number of bad guys after receiving a bullet to the chest; the wonderful Ti Lung, Wang Chung, and Chen Kuan Tai take on Yasuaki Kurata and his small army at a public gym which allows for some violent and fun choreography. It's an exciting an exciting battle that ends in typical Chang Cheh fashion, but each of the stars get to show off some great moves – even David Chiang proves to impress after his so-so martial abilities in their previous production, The Angry Guest. Interestingly enough, Kurata had made his Hong Kong/Shaw Brothers debut in that film alongside Chiang and Ti Lung, and in between productions over the course of a year had went onto appear in 4 other titles including Tiger, The King Of Boxers, The Prodigal Boxer, and The Good & The Bad alongside Chen Sing from his debut film. As expected, there are a host of recognisable faces grace the screen throughout the films running time such as Alexander Fu Sheng who cameos as a young solider dancing by the jukebox in the nightclub. It would be another year or two before he actually got his big break under the watchful eye of Chang Cheh, and is actually easy to miss here unless you know where to look. The great Lau Kar Wing appears as one of Kurata's henchmen along with Wong Ching, San Kuai, Chan Chuen, Yen Shi Kwan, Yuen Woo Ping, Fung Hak On, Wang Kung Yu, Chui Fat, Yuen Shun Yi, and many others. The lovely Lily Li stars in a non-action role, while American actor Andre Marquis does a great job, in what was only his second role, as the gangster Boss Hawke...
While it's quite obvious to viewers when certain scenes jump from the streets of Seoul to the backlot of the Shaw Brothers studio, Four Riders still looks great and benefits from having Japanese DOP Kung Mu To (Yukio Miyaki) behind the cinematography. Having started with Chang Cheh and the Shaw Brothers in the late 60s, Kung went onto capture over 50 films through to the mid-80s – most of which were for Cheh up until his departure from the studio, and Hong Kong actor/director Frankie Chan looks after the enjoyable score. While it could have been a lot more epic in many ways, Four Riders still manages to outshine its flaws and prove to be another entertaining martial arts romp from the 'Iron Triangle' that was Cheh, Chiang, and Lung (who still shines as the greatest of them all). Definitely worth a watch if you're tired of Chang Cheh's production line of swordplay dramas and Shaolin historical pieces!
Overall: Neatly made and exciting to watch, Four Riders is a different martial arts story from Cheh, but one worth seeing!
Blu-ray Extras: Alternate German Cinema Release (86 Mins), Trailers, Photo Gallery with Rare Material
Watch my unboxing video of this Koch Media release HERE
FROM BEIJING WITH LOVE
(Hong Kong 1994)
Original Title: Gwok Chaan Ling Ling Chat
Directed by Stephen Chow Sing Chi, Lee Lik Chi Produced by Charles Heung, Jimmy Heung Action by Poon Kin Kwan Starring: Stephen Chow Sing Chi, Anita Yuen, Law Kar Ying, Pauline Chan, Joe Cheng, Wong Kam Kong, Lee Lik Chi, Yu Rong Guang, Wong Yat Fei, Yip Chun Reviewing: Eureka Video UK Blu-ray Release Genres: Comedy / Action / Parody
Rating - 4.5 / 5
Eureka Video UK Blu-ray Synopsis: Hong Kong's King of Comedy Stephen Chow(Shaolin Soccer, Kung Fu Hustle) directs and stars in this hilarious spoof of the James Bond franchise. Martini swilling butcher (and disgraced former spy) Ling Ling Chat is dispatched to recover a stolen dinosaur skull from a golden-gun wielding supervillain. Equipped with the latest gadgets,our hero dons his tuxedo and swaggers into a world of danger, beautiful women and metal-mouthed assassins. Sound familiar? One of Stephen Chow's funniest films, Eureka Classics is proud to present From Beijing With Love on Blu-ray in its UK debut. (83 Mins)
Nova Media Korean Blu-ray Synopsis: NA (83 Mins)
Views: Written and directed by both Stephen Chow Sing Chi and Lee Lik Chi, with the former also starring as the leading man and the latter cameoing in a comedic role as blind prisoner who has been arrested for peeking at confidential documents (think about it), From Beijing With Love proudly delivers itself as a very direct spoof of the James Bond films – predating Austin Powers: International Man Of Mystery by a few years and, in many ways, is a much more superior parody. The film tells the tale of Chinese secret-agent 007 who is sent to Hong Kong to recover the skull of a T-rex; China's only dinosaur fossil that has been stolen by the man with the golden gun. Partnered with Hong Kong agent Lee, who has been ordered to delay his investigation and, ultimately, finish him off – 007 takes on a host of wild and whacky villains while dodging bullets, blades, and baddies, backed by his trusty butchers blade and collection of insane gadgets!
Known in Cantonese as Gwok Chaan Ling Ling Chat – which literally means 'The Locally Produced 007', From Beijing With Love went on to gross $37.5 million in Hong Kong with Chow Sing Chi gaining a nomination for Best Actor at the Hong Kong Film Awards in 1995. Although he had been active in the television and film and industry from the early 80s, the hilarious Stephen Chow Sing Chi really shot to superstardom around 1990 when films such as Curry & Pepper, Look Out Officer, All For The Winner, and God Of Gamblers 2 allowed him to really put his comedic talents to use. Of course, between then and From Beijing With Love, the Hong Kong film-maker practically delivered hit after hit, lighting up the box office with films such as Tricky Brains, Fight Back To School, Royal Tramp, Flirting Scholar, Love On Delivery, A Chinese Odyssey 1 & 2 and many more, proving to be a genuine comic genius and working with directors such as Vincent Kok, Jeff Lau, Gordon Chan, Danny Lee, and the prolific Wong Jing. Of course, the whole world now knows who Stephen Chow is after the successful Hollywood release of Shaolin Soccer and Kung Fu Hustle, both of which I highly recommend. So why, at the height of his global recognition, did Chow soon step away from leading roles? Soon after starring in and directing his fun family comedy CJ7, and aside from a brief role in China's Beginning Of The Great Revival, Hong Kong's king of comedy soon faded from sight with at least 5 years passing before he announced his next project. Some say it was due to the lack of success and embarrassment of Dragonball Evolution; his first major Hollywood film as a producer that was torn to shreds by fans and critics for its complete inability to represent anything Akira Toriyama's epic manga/anime stood for. So, after becoming a member of the CCP as well as a major shareholder of the Bingo Group LTD production company in China, Chow returned in 2013 as the director of Journey To The West: Conquering The Demons – a hilarious re-imagining of the Monkey King story. But a decade has since passed and we still haven't seen Chow star in another feature, although he has been keeping us happy with his directorial efforts The Mermaid and The New King Of Comedy, as well as producing his Monkey King sequel Journey To The West: Demon Chapter (this time directed by Tsui Hark), and we may never see him star again – but that's why restored versions of his earlier works, such as From Beijing With Love, are vitally important to fans of his work.
Also gaining a nomination the same year, this time for Best Supporting Actor, was Law Kar Ying, another regular face of Chow's film projects with From Beijing With Love being their first which saw the star play an insane version of the James Bond gadget inventor, Q. A prolific actor in his own right, with over 160 credits to his name, Law has appeared alongside some of Hong Kong's biggest stars including Jackie Chan, Jet Li, Chow Yun Fat, Leslie Cheung, and Tony Leung, racking up almost 170 film credits over the last 3 decades. Oddly enough, his role here as Tat Man Si was only his fourth or fifth role since making his feature debut alongside Jackie Chan in Crime Story, just the year before. Here, the pair are joined by the wonderful Anita Yuen who does an amazing job as Chow's partner/assassinator, Agent Lee. Yuen had only been in the film business for about 2 years, making her big screen debut in Days Of Being Dumb alongside Jacky Cheung, Tony Leung, and Eric Tsang. A wild mix of films would follow such as Handome Siblings, Last Hero In China, Prince Of Portland Street, Cést La Vie Mon Cheri (of which she pays homage to in a scene here), Crystal Fortune Run, and A Taste Of Killing & Romance, and it was clear that the young actress was making an impact as From Beijing With Love would be only one of 13 titles she would star in that year. The characteristic Wong Kam Kong stars as Chow's double-crossing commander and the main villain of the piece, Golden-Gun. Although he didn't star in many films over his 15 year career – when you look at the output from most Hong Kong actors of the time – Wong became a recognisable face to many and often gave great performances no matter how big the role. Prior to this, Wong starred in martial arts movies such as Sammo Hung's Blade Of Fury and Cheng Siu Keung's forgotten Sam The Iron Bridge Trilogy, as well as Ringo Lam's hugely underrated Burning Paradise where he played the sadistic prison warden. But it's also worth pointing out his roles in modern action films such as The Tigers, Gunmen, Wonder Seven, Tiger Cage 3, Bodyguard From Beijing, and Alfred Cheung's Manhattan Midnight, which would also be his last. The lovely Pauline Chan stars in one of her less Cat.3 based roles as an assassin for Golden-Gun, complete with a machine gun bra and barrels that represent some lengthy nipples, with Joe Cheng joining her as Metal Mouth – a clear spoof of the James Bond villain known as Jaws. This would only be Joe's second time starring alongside Chow, with his first (and debut role) being in the hilarious Love On Delivery as the judo master for fights Chow for a girl. Clearly a favourite of the star and director, Cheng would go onto star with Chow in Sixty Million Dollar Man, The Lucky Guy, and King Of Comedy. And I mustn't forget about the wonderful Yu Rong Guang who makes a cameo appearance as the true, kick ass secret agent known as 002...
Up to this point, Chow had often spoofed scenes from Hollywood blockbusters and western pop culture, as well as Bruce Lee's films Fist Of Fury and Enter The Dragon – with the star often citing the Little Dragon as his ultimate hero – but From Beijing With Love would be the first full parody of a popular film or series that would get his full attention. Interestingly though, he would also pay homage to the hits of Wong Kar Wai and Tony Leung Chiu Wai in particular spooking his coffee drinking scene from Chungking Express by swapping it for a dry Martini, and another from Days Of Being Wild that sees Chow admiring himself in the mirror while combing his hair after the camera pans across his room – even going as far as to use the same music as heard in Wong's movie. And then there's his co-director, Lee Lik Chi. Much like Stephen Chow, co-writer and director Lee was no stranger to the mo lai tau comedy genre of Hong Kong cinema. The pair first joined forces in 1991 on the hilarious Magnificent Scoundrels with Lee going on to appear alongside and direct Chow in titles such as Flirting Scholar, Love On Delivery, God Of Cookery, The Lucky Guy, King Of Comedy, and of course, From Beijing With Love – most of which have proven to be some of Chow Sing Chi's bigger hits. While much of the audience in the west still find it quite difficult to pick up on his style of nonsensical humour, I have personally relished in his work for the last few decades, often laughing the loudest in the room and usually at the small, intricate details that easily pass the general audience.
As one would expect, due to the nature of its portrayal of the Chinese government and communist party, From Beijing With Love was never released in China – and while it was not uncommon for Hong Kong movies of this time to make fun of the political corruption and widely criticised bureaucracy of its neighbours leading up the 1997 handover, it's clear we may never see this kind of comedy come out of Hong Kong cinema ever again. Coming in at an undemanding 83 minutes, the film sits as one of Chow's shortest, yet still offers the complete package with plenty of laughs, brutal violence, and over the top insanity that helped make From Beijing With Love a hit and a successful directorial debut for its leading man!
Overall: Hilarious and wonderfully conceived, From Beijing With Love is one of Chow Sing Chi's finest moments and never fails to make me laugh!
Eureka Video Blu-ray Extras: 2K Restoration, Audio Commentary with Frank Djeng, Interview with Wong Kam Kong, Archival Interview with Lee Lik Chi, In Conversation with Wong Kam Kong, Trailer
Nova Media Blu-ray Extras: Trailer
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Watch my unboxing video for this Eureka Video Blu-ray Release HERE
Reviewing: Eureka Video UK Blu-ray Release Genres: Action / Wuxia / Drama / Fantasy / Romance
Rating: 4.5 / 5
FURIOUS SWORDS & FANTASTIC
WARRIORS: THE HEROIC CINEMA
OF CHANG CHEH (COLLECTION)
Eureka Video UK Blu-ray Synopsis: Distinguished by his penchant for bloodshed and a thematic concentration on the bonds of brotherhood and masculine sacrifice, Chang Cheh is one of the most prolific and accomplished directors ever to emerge from the Hong Kong film industry. Often hailed as the “Godfather of Hong Kong cinema,” he enjoyed a career spanning six decades and worked in a multitude of genres, from Chinese opera to kung fu films via wuxia pian, historical epics and tales of the supernatural. Presented here are ten films that reveal the range and versatility of Chang’s career as a filmmaker. Traditional wuxia pian is represented by King Eagle, Trail of the Broken Blade and Wandering Swordsman; choreographed by Lau Kar-leung, Men from the Monastery and Shaolin Martial Arts are both drawn from Chang’s Shaolin cycle, included here alongside New Shaolin Boxers; Iron Bodyguard, released at the dawn of the kung fu era, is representative of changing trends in Hong Kong cinema; and some of Chang’s more esoteric work is represented by the opera film The Fantastic Magic Baby and the supernatural fantasy The Weird Man. Also included is the anthology film Trilogy of Swordsmanship, to which Chang contributed a segment alongside his contemporaries Yueh Feng and Cheng Kang. All produced during Chang Cheh’s tenure at Shaw Brothers, these ten films are a testament to the director’s distinct aesthetic style and his recurring thematic preoccupations. Eureka Classics is proud to present this selection of Chang’s work for the first time on Blu-ray in the UK.
Views: Limited only to 2000 copies and gorgeously presented by Eureka Video, the Furious Swords & Fantastic Warriors collection celebrates the heroic cinema of famed director Chang Cheh with ten classic titles from the Shaw Brothers studios. Known for his blood-soaked martial arts epics, excessive melodrama, and homoerotic themes of brotherhood, Chang Cheh is one of the most loved, respected and celebrated directors of Hong Kong cinema. Eureka Video continues their foray into the Shaw Brothers classics with a host of titles that are sure to become a much loved part of every fan's collection. From historical pieces to wuxia action, bizarre fantasy to revenge dramas, Chang Cheh's filmography spanned almost 45 years with around 100 titles as director, producer or and writer under his belt and launched the film careers of many Hong Kong and Taiwanese stars including Jimmy Wang Yu, David Chiang, Ti Lung and the much loved Venom Mob. With this collection, fans can find a diverse range of work that highlight's the director's trademark style and versatility that only confirms why he was so revered and often known as the 'Godfather of Hong Kong cinema'...
Spread over five discs in glorious HD prints, the first two films of the set are taken from Chang's 'Shaolin Cycle' alongside films such as Heroes Two, Five Shaolin Masters, and Shaolin Temple for example. It begins with the fabulous Men From The Monastery, a 1974 production that is sometimes known as Disciples of Death and a film that is often said to be the second of the Cycle with Alexander Fu Sheng and Chen Kuan Tai reprising their roles from Heroes Two as the infamous Fong Sai Yuk and Hung Hei Kwan, respectively. Naturally, they are out to stop the feared Qing invaders and are joined by a fresh faced and vengeful young fighter played by the great Chi Kuan Chun in his debut role. Throughout their journey, the trio trade blows with a number of recognisable Shaw Brothers villains such as Chiang Tao, Wong Ching, Fung Ngai, Fung Hak On and others. Eagle-eyed viewers should also keep an eye out for future performers such as Hsu Hsia, Tino Wong, Brandy Yuen, Bruce Tong, Jamie Luk, Yen Shi Kwan, Yuen Shun Yi and Kent Cheng among others. As with many Chang Cheh films, the legendary Lau Kar Leung and Tong Kai choreograph the abundance of martial arts action on offer, which pretty much fills the majority of it's running time. Oddly, the film's opening credits start rolling about an hour into it - at which point you should go watch Heroes Two which would explain why years are supposed to have passed throughout it's storyline also. Regardless, it all ends in a powerhouse finale that allows all involved the chance to shine as fight fans rejoice!
Sharing that disc is Shaolin Martial Arts from the same year and (almost) featuring the same cast. Although Chen Kuan Tai is missing this time round, viewers get to enjoy a young Gordon Liu in one of his earliest and first Shaw Brothers films. Bruce Tong gets a stronger role this time, while many of the aforementioned background players get to stick around. Of course, Alexander Fu Sheng and Chi Kuan Chun lead the way – and do a great job once again – while a young Leung Kar Yan and Johnny Wang Lung Wei make their film debut as bad guys alongside returners Chinag Tao and Fung Hak On. The great Law Kar Wing gets an extended guest role offering up a nice performance with a spear and prolific actors such as the legendary Simon Yuen Siu Tin, Lee Wan Chung and Chiang Nan also appear. Unlike Men From The Monastery, there a lot more training sequences throughout Shaolin Martial Arts, helping our heroes get ready to take on the evil Manchu fighters who have come to destroy Shaolin Temple. It's also worth noting that this was considered to be one of the first on-screen portrayals of the deadly monk, Pai Mei – the character made famous in the West by Gordon Liu in Tarantino's Kill Bill 2. Once again, Lau Kar Leung and Tong Kai deliver some incredible kung fu action which helps it's lengthy running time (of almost 2 hours) zip by. With that, Shaolin Martial Arts delivers just about everything you would expect from a Shaw Brothers movie of this period – strong story, high production values, violent fight scenes – making it one of Chang Cheh's finer titles from his run of Shaolin movies.
Aside from the two films, the first disc also contains two audio commentaries. For Men From The Monastery, David West delivers an in-depth look at the film with some informative points on it's stars and certain characters, while Frank Djeng and Michael Worth work their way through Shaolin Martial Arts. A 15 minute featurette called Saving Shaolin: Legends of Modern Martial Arts makes for an interesting watch as Jonathon Clements narrates the truth of Chang Cheh's stories and the characters involved. And finally, older fans may enjoy looking back at the few minutes of VHS footage of the English credits for Men From The Monastery...
Disc Two gives us King Eagle and Iron Bodyguard, two more titles that fall under the 'Furious Swords' side of the box set. The incredible Ti Lung leads the way in what was only his 6th or 7th movie since entering the film industry. Of course, he had starred for Chang Cheh in everything previous and is absolutely one of my all time favourite Shaw Brothers stars. Here, he stars as the titular hero – a lone swordsman who inadvertently gets pulled into the conflicts of a martial arts clan. But while caught up in their internal battles, King Eagle falls in love with their 7th leader; a beautiful young swordswoman with an evil twin sister. Together, they return to the clan's hideout where they a violent battle breaks out and King Eagle's skills are really put to the test. While very different to the previous Shaolin outings, King Eagle is a fast moving wuxia-melodrama in the vein of Avenging Eagle that came out a number of years later. Ti Lung is joined by the lovely Li Ching who stars as his new love (and her twin sister), the great Chang Pei Shan, Ching Miao, Wang Kuang Yu, Wang Chung, Chen Sing, and others. Supporting roles and extras come in the shape of Bruce Tong, Chan Chuen, Wong Ching, Yuen Shun Yi, Cliff Lok, San Kwai, Fung Hak On, Brandy Yuen, Yuen Woo Ping, and Yen Shi Kwan among others. Interestingly, the talented Yuen Cheung Yan joins Tong Kai this time as the martial arts-directors of the piece, with the latter also appearing briefly throughout the film. Focusing more on swordplay rather than hand-to-hand combat, the fight scenes are fast and furious, and still as entertaining today!
Iron Bodyguard follows – a historical martial arts-drama set in the 1890s, based on a true story and later remade by Sammo Hung as Blade of Fury. It tells the tale of the Reformist Party led by Tan Si Tong who, along with a group of forward thinking scholars, are trying to modernise China under the rule of the Empress Dowager. Naturally, there mission doesn't go smoothly. Along the way, Tan meets militant hero Wang Wu and quickly learns that he has the support of this feared swordsman. Together, the pair fight side-by-side as the Manchu army are sent to stop them – all for sharing a few bits of calligraphy. While ignoring some truths and political drama, no doubt for a bit of artistic licensing in allowing a faster-paced, fight-filled film. The fantastic Chen Kuan Tai stars as Big Blade Wang Yu while the popular Yueh Hua plays Tan Si Tong. Both are joined by a hots of younger but recognisable faces such as the great Danny Lee, who was only making his 5th or 6th appearance at this time, Lily Li, Dean Shek, Fong Hak On, Ricky Hui, Chui Fat, Huang Ha, and Tung Lin. Popular bad guys of the time, Chiang Tao and Chiang Nan also get to shake things up. It's also worth noting that regular co-director Pao Hsueh Li shares the helm with Chang Cheh on this one, with both directors also making The Pirate that same year.
Two more audio commentaries accompany the films with Mike Leeder and Arne Venema delivering a fun one for King Eagle, and Iron Bodyguard seeing the return of Frank Djeng and Michael Worth. The only other extra feature is another video essay by Jonathon Clements called A Sword Raise To The Sky: History and the Iron Bodyguard, a 15 minute piece that looks closely at that real history of the characters portrayed and how true the film actually was. It also shows (supposedly) real photos of each hero and their executions. Narrated once again by the man himself, it does make for a very interesting watch overall...
Disc three, the first of the 'Fantastic Warriors' side of things, contains The Fantastic Magic Baby and The Weird Man – two films that were first time watches for me. Made in 1975 and only one of three films from Chang Cheh that year (compared to his busier output in 1974 and 76), The Fantastic Magic Baby plays like a film adaptation of a Chinese Opera with pantomime overtones that will surely bring a chuckle to some viewers as much as it may annoy as many. Set in the heavens, the story is filled with fantastical characters such as Sun Wukong the Monkey King, Princess Iron Fan, the Goddess of Mercy, Dragon Girl, the Ox King, Pigsy, Sandy, Tripitaka and more – all of whom have to deal with the child-god known as The Fantastic Magic Baby (or Red Boy), and get him onto the road of righteousness. Out of all the genres Chang Cheh delves into, this kind of fantasy style isn't really his strongest. Prior to this, he had just made Na Cha the Great with Alexander Fu Sheng but that was a film I just did not like! Thankfully, The Fantastic Magic Baby is a little better – although still not top tier Chang Cheh and only runs for 65 minutes before going straight into an actual Chinese Opera stage play of the very same story (at 35 minutes). For the movie, the talented Ting Wa Chung makes his debut role as the titular character. Of course, he would go onto star in films such as 7 Man Army, Incredible Kung Fu Mission, Shaolin Vs. Ninja, The Nine Demons, and more. Ting is joined by regulars Chiang Tao and Fung Hak On, while the great Philip Kwok shows up in a couple of roles in what was one of his first ever films. While it certainly won't be for everyone, The Fantastic Magic Baby is silly and creative with some fun fight action courtesy of Lau Kar Leung. Perhaps watching it with one of the two available audio commentaries may help you get through it, with Mike Leeder and Arne Venema or Frank Djeng alone offering two very different experiences and the stage show was pretty cool too.
The Weird Man follows that; a Chang Cheh film that came almost a decade after The Fantastic Magic Baby and proves to be much more entertaining – thankfully. It would also be his last for the Shaw Brothers studio. Playing like an unspoken chapter from Romance of the Three Kingdoms, The Weird Man is a bizarre mix of fantasy, martial arts, ghostly fun and Taoist magic. Think Miracle Fighters meets the Venom Mob and you'll have a fair idea of what to expect. An executed Taoist Priest, who spent his living days helping and healing, returns as a vengeful ghost and uses his supernatural powers to fight the corrupt officials that killed him. It often doesn't make a lot of sense, but it does entertain for the most part and is one of those odd Hong Kong titles that drew many Western fans in. The talented Ricky Cheng stars as Taoist Yu Ji – the Weird Man himself. Interestingly, after this, Cheng would star in two other very odd titles for Chang Cheh with Attack of the Joyful Goddess and The Nine Demons which were independently made by the director – an odd time for the legendary filmmaker that saw each film get less and less appealing. Fans might also recognise Cheng from Jackie Chan's earlier Lo Wei titles such as New Fist of Fury and Killer Meteors, and got his first role alongside him in Hand of Death. Here, Cheng is joined by Chiu Gwok, Chang Cheh regulars Wong Lik, Yu Tai Ping, Kwan Fung, and Chu Ko, prolific actor Wong Ching Ho, and the great Jason Pai Piao in an extended cameo. Ricky Cheng also handles the fight choreography and delivers a host of incredible martial arts action, as well as some fantastical moments that allow for extra creativity. The always informative David West offers a great audio commentary for anyone wanting to try and make more sense of this outrageous movie.
On disc four we get Trail of the Broken Blade and The Wandering Swordsman. Made in 1967 and starring the great-late Jimmy Wang Yu in his third feature for Cheh after Tiger Boy and Magnificent Trio, Trail of the Broken Blade is a gorgeously put together classic featuring handsome swordsman, strong performances, exciting swordplay, stunning cinematography and musical numbers. After assassinating the corrupt official who killed his father, aristocratic knight Li Yueh (Wang Yu) turns his back on his life, love and sword to go into hiding. Naturally, many people come looking for him – some for his head, others for his help. I really enjoy Trail of the Broken Blade. Chang directs it's intricate story well and Wang Yu looks fantastic – still an early moment of his film career before he fell into that 'terminator' mould in the years that followed. He is joined by Kiu Chong, who plays the handsome swordsman Fang, and the gorgeous Lisa Chiao Chiao – their first film together before going onto star with each other in the One-Armed Swordsman and many more after that. Wang Yu's regular lady co-star Chin Ping returns, while the great Chen Hung Lieh channels his inner Jade Faced Tiger from Come Drink With Me to portray another strong villain. Of course, both he and Wang Yu had shared the screen a few times before this already. They are joined by prolific actors such as Paul Wei Ping-Ao, Fan Mei Sheng, Tien Feng, Wu Ma, Wang Kuang Yu and Lee Wan Chung. Up and coming stars such as Cliff Lok, Lau Kar Wing, Yuen Cheung Yan, Hsu Hsia,Yuen Woo Ping and Yuen Shun Yi also appear, with fight choreographers Lau Kar Leung and Tong Kai also popping up. Another fact-filled audio commentary from David West accompanies the film...
Shaw Brothers legend David Chiang leads the way in The Wandering Swordsman as a Robin Hood-esque character that gets duped into helping a band of thieves rob some valuable treasure. When he learns of the mistake he has made, the cheeky swordsman does what he can to fix things and seek his own redemption. The first film to allow David Chiang to star as a solo leading man (Ti Lung is nowhere to be seen), The Wandering Swordsman is a very different kettle of fish in comparison to what we have seen in the collection already. Humorous and quirky in it's approach, the film features a host of names that add to the fun such as the great Chen Sing, lovely Lily Li, co-director Wu Ma, Cheh movie regular Cheng Lei, Wang Kuang Yu, Cliff Lok, and a young Bolo Yeung in what would be only his first or second role ever. While most of the infamous Yuen Clan appear throughout, Yuen Cheung Yan gets a more featured part having been the man behind the exciting fight choreography, alongside the prolific Chan Siu Pang. While there's some crude wire-work on offer here and there, most of the fights are pretty entertaining and make Chiang look a little less stiff than he usually does. It was also nice to see him having a good time, playing more of a care-free character compared to many of his later roles with Chang Cheh that were very straight-laced. Overall, it's a fun ride worth checking out! Once again, Mike Leeder and Arne Venema return to give another informative and fun audio commentary.
The final disc offers up Trilogy of Swordsmanship and New Shaolin Boxers, a nice finish to this busy and impressive collection. The first is an interesting project and one we have seen many times since, with three short films (featuring brotherhood, swordplay, politics, intrigue and melodrama) put out as a lengthy Anthology feature – each segment handled by different directors. The first episode is called The Iron Bow, directed by Griffin Yueh Feng; an equally prolific director who was coming towards the end of his career by this stage after 40 years in the business. A light-hearted story with enough solid fight action, the film is quite humorous at times and features the fantastic Yueh Hua, beautiful Shih Szu, popular Tin Ching, and a hairy Bolo Yeung. It's a beautifully made piece from the director of classics like Dragon Creek, Rape of the Sword, A Taste of Cold Steel and The Bells of Death! The Tigress follows from director Cheng Kang, the man behind hits such as Twelve Gold Medallions, 14 Amazons, and The Flying Guillotine 2! Coming in at around 45 minutes in total, Cheng offers a more emotional tale about a love affair between an army General and a beautiful prostitute – a woman that every man wants to have. The beautiful Lily Ho plays the leading lady (fantastically) alongside stars such as Lo Lieh, Tsung Hua, Chin Han, Wang Ping and the prolific Lee Wan Chung. A young Sammo Hung and Yeung Wai also make small appearances. Without a doubt, The Tigress is wonderfully done and certainly won't disappoint! The man of the hour comes in with the final segment – White Water Strand; a fight filled piece from the 'Iron Triangle' of Chang Cheh, David Chiang and Ti Lung. It's a simple enough tale coming off The Water Margin legend, about a gang of heroic bandits trying to rescue their friend from execution, and a damn good excuse for as much fighting as possible – so much so, that White Water Strand almost feels like it's the closing chapter from a whole other movie, with it's back story having been left out. Starring alongside them are a bevy of familiar faces such as Wang Chung, Chen Sing, Bruce Tong, Cheng Lei, Li Ching, and Ku Feng, while the likes of Bolo Yeung, San Kuai, Yuen Woo Ping and Yen Shi Kwan pop-up throughout. Hsu Feng Ying does a great job as one of the only females in action. Overall, it's a short film that oozes Chang Cheh's best qualities and a great finish to this brilliantly put together Anthology. It's also worth noting that fight choreographers Lau Kar Leung, Tong Kai, Leung Siu Chung and Chui Hing Chun share the duties throughout, with the action in each film proving to highly entertaining and one of the biggest highlights.
And finally, New Shaolin Boxers closes the set – a kung fu comedy with Alexander Fu Sheng in top form as a heroic rascal, Zhong Jian, that tries to help those in need but often finds that he causes more trouble as a result. After dealing with some thugs, Fu is soon defeated by their boss, Feng. Jian heads to the hills where he learns Choy Li Fut from an old Shaolin disciple, but the hot-tempered young fighter can't handle his bizarre training and leaves early. But when he learns that his master has been killed by Feng, Zhong Jian returns to Shaolin to complete his training and seek revenge! Co-directed by Wu Ma and also known as Grand Master of Death, New Shaolin Boxers is quite possibly my favourite Alexander Fu Sheng film. Playing as the solo hero for the first time, Fu Sheng has never looked and moved better thanks to it's top team of fight directors. His wife, Jenny Tseng, co-stars in what would be their second film together that year alongside Chang Cheh's Boxer Rebellion. Of course, following this, the pair would star in Chinatown Kid. Joining them in the bad guy corner is the amazing Leung Kar Yan and Johnny Wang Lung Wei, the latter of which plays big boss Feng. The great Shan Mao stars as Fu's ill-fated master while the always entertaining Chen Hui Lou plays his Shaolin master. Fans should also keep an eye out for the upcoming Venom Mob in smaller roles, as well as Robotrix director Jamie Luk. Supposedly the fourth film of Chang Cheh's Shaolin Cycle, New Shaolin Boxers may have a basic storyline, but it's performances and fight scenes are what make it a winner with Chang Cheh trying something a little different for the final battle – but I liked it.
Two more audio commentaries accompany the films with Mike Leeder and Arne Venema delivering another fun and informative one for Trilogy of Swordsmanship, while Frank Djeng returns with Michael Worth to cover New Shaolin Boxers. The final extra feature is an interview with Hong Kong cinema scholar Wayne Wong – an 18 minute piece to cam on the Trilogy of Swordsmanship and Chang Cheh. As always, he delivers a well written and presented essay mixed with clips from the movie and really breaks down the fantastic Anthology included on this disc...
All in all, and many hours later, Furious Swords & Fantastic Warriors: The Heroic Cinema of Chang Cheh is a must for any fan of kung fu cinema and the infamous Shaw Brothers studio. Each movie looks fantastic with their HD restorations, some offering classic English dubs for nostalgic purposes but all with original soundtracks and newly translated English subtitles. The colourful and neatly done artwork of Darren Wheeling graces the box itself and continues onto the cases inside, while James Oliver delivers some great write-ups on all films in the neatly presented collectors book that accompanies it. Wonderfully done and limited to only 2000 copies, Furious Swords & Fantastic Warriors: The Heroic Cinema of Chang Cheh is a superb addition to the collection!
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FUTURE COPS
(Hong Kong 1993)
Original Title: Chao Ji Xue Xiao Ba Wang 超級學校霸王 (aka) Street Fighter: Super School Overlord
Directed by Wong Jing Produced by John Higgins Action by Tony Ching Siu Tung, Dion Lam Starring: Andy Lau, Jacky Cheung, Simon Yam, Dicky Cheung, Aaron Kwok, Ken Lo, Ekin Cheng, Chingmy Yau, Richard Ng, Charlie Yeung, Billy Chow, Andy Hui, Dennis Chan, Kingdom Yuen Reviewing: Eureka Video UK Blu-ray Release Genres: Fantasy / Martial Arts / Comedy
Rating: 4 / 5
Eureka Video UK Blu-ray Synopsis: Inspired by Capcom’s smash-hit video game sensation Street Fighter II, Future Cops is a mash-up of martial-arts action, comedy and science fiction directed by Wong Jing (God of Gamblers) and featuring an impressive ensemble cast, including Andy Lau (Casino Raiders), Jacky Cheung (Once Upon a Time in China), Aaron Kwok (Throw Down), Chingmy Yau (Royal Tramp) and Simon Yam (PTU). In the year 2043, the evil crime lord The General (Ken Lo, Drunken Master II) has been imprisoned for his heinous crimes. His loyal followers Kent (Ekin Cheng, Young and Dangerous), Thai King (Billy Chow, High Risk) and Toyota (William Duen, Crime Story) have a plan to free him, though: they will travel back in time and eliminate the Judge who sentenced him. They are followed into the past by Lung (Kwok), Broomhead (Cheung), Ti Man (Lau) and Sing (Yam), “Future Cops” who intend to keep The General in jail where he belongs. But as both cops and criminals arrive in the year 1993 to search for the Judge – who back then was just a teenager – they find themselves embroiled not just in a battle for the future… but high-school drama, too. Released in 1993 (shortly after City Hunter, another Wong Jing film that draws upon the Capcom franchise), Future Cops beat the first official adaptation of Street Fighter into cinemas by a full year. Eureka Classics is proud to present the film on Blu-ray for the first time in the UK in this special edition. (95 Mins)
Universe HK DVD Synopsis: In the year 2043, the notorious villain is about to be put on trial. His killers decide to go back 50 years by the time tunnel, and look for the judge in his youthful age. They want to program into the boy's mind and alternate his decision. However, the Future Cops follow. They infiltrate into a school and befriend with a slightly retarded boy, who is always insulted and bullied. Who knows he is in fact the judge of the future? (95 Mins)
Views: Released in 1993, Wong Jing's outrageously entertaining and very unofficial Street Fighter 2 influenced movie predates the official Hollywood outing (starring Jean Claude Van Damme) by a year, and completely wipes the floor with it in terms of getting things right. From its wild selection of characters to its insane fight choreography that delivers moves that are true to the popular Capcom game, Future Cops may only have been made for the cost of the Hollywood feature's catering budget, but it's quirky cheapness just adds even more entertainment value and charm to this unsung classic of Hong Kong cinema. When a major criminal, known as The General, is sent to jail after an attempt at world domination, a number of his ruthless minions travel back in time from 2043 to 1993 to kill the Judge that locked him away. But the Future Cops know of their plot and,under orders from their police chief, are sent back to protect him. Landing in the back garden of clumsy high school student Tai Hung, the Future Cops try to blend in with daily life, going back to school, falling in love, and protecting Tai Hung from The General's minions – as well as some high school bullies!
Clearly inspired by the Street Fighter 2 wonders he worked on Jackie Chan's City Hunter earlier that year, writer and director Wong Jing immediately got to work on this whacky gem pulling out all the stops and pulling in an all-star cast to make it happen. But, with Wong Jing being Wong Jing, just having a blatant rip-off of the world's most popular video-game was never going to be straight-forward enough! With Future Cops, Wong delivers a host of pop culture homages that never fail to create a chuckle. These include the equally popular anime Dragon Ball, Super Mario, JoJo's Bizarre Adventure, The Terminator, Doreamon, Ghost and others. Using his powers as one of Hong Kong's most prolific film-makers, Wong Jing secured the services of some of Hong Kong cinemas finest such as the incredible Andy Lau – a Wong Jing regular who began with him on the Magic Crystal back in 1986. Since then, the pair has worked together on films such as The Crazy Companies 1 & 2 (1988), Perfect Match (1989), Casino Raiders (1989), Crocodile Hunter (1989), God Of Gamblers (1989), Kung Fu Vs Acrobatic (1990), The Last Blood (1991), and so many more even through to today. In Future Cops, Lau plays Ti Man – the Vega character of game, complete with weaponised claws and face mask, while the fantastic Jacky Cheung stars as the hilariously named Broomhead – a Chinese variation of Guile. Wong Jing's old flame and fan-favourite femme fatale, Chingmy Yau (who starred in 9 features the same year, most of which were for him) turns in a highly-entertaining role as Chun-may; the Chun Li of the show, with the hilarious Kingdom Yuen making an appearance as another variation of the same character. And then there's the handsome Aaron Kwok who appears in a smaller role playing the Ryu character known as Lung – probably one of the very few that looks exactly like their video-game counterpart. The legendary Simon Yam turns in a comic performance as Sing, the Dhalsim of the piece who actually stretches and breathes fire when needed, and the popular Ekin Cheng stars as the Chinese version of Ken – albeit with a few tweaks...
Jackie Chan Stunt Team member and popular villain of Hong Kong cinema Ken Lo leads the bad guys as The General; sporting an almost identical outfit to that of his M. Bison counterpart. Of course, Lo had just worked with Wong Jing on the aforementioned City Hunter that same year, and before that on Deadly Dream Woman and Naked Killer in 1992. Over the years that followed, and still today, Ken has appeared in a number of memorable Wong Jing titles. The equally menacing Billy Chow stars as the Sagat of the piece known as Thai King, getting to show his awesome kicking skills to the max, while the great William Duen plays Toyota – a more precise and weightier version of E. Honda than Jackie Chan's City Hunter variation (as much as I loved it). And the late-great Richard Ng is wonderfully miscast and hilarious as Blanka, although in the best possible way of course! Helping to fill out the cast list is the fun Andy Hui, Charlie Yeung, Nat Chan, Winnie Lau, Lee Siu Kay, and the great Dennis Chan as the unfortunate Head Master of the prime location high school. And last, but not least, there's the wonderfully charming and always enjoyable Dicky Cheung; the popular singer and actor who stars as Tai Hung – the target of The General who will go onto become the big Judge in the future, who eventually gains his own super-power and becomes Son Goku from Dragon Ball in the final battle. In fact, 1993 would prove to be a very busy year for Dicky with no less than 11 films roles on the go in films such as My Hero 2, Hero From Beyond The Boundary Of Time, Vampire Family, Black Panther Warriors, The Prince Of Portland Street, and Wong Jing films like Last Hero In China, Holy Weapon, and this.
Proving to one hell of a film-maker across many different genres and many decades, Wong Jing has always been somewhat of a marmite writer/director/producer for many fans in the west. And with that, I think it's only fair to say that a movie like Future Cops may not sit well for many. With plenty of in-jokes and an abundance of crazy, over-the-top, video-game inspired fight-action courtesy of the prolific and talented Tony Ching Siu Tung – all of which I can assure you, will most certainly entertain – the film has long been a favourite of mine, and one of the first HK movie bootlegs I ever ordered when I was starting out my collection back in the early 90s. Interestingly, Wong Jing would deliver a semi-sequel/remake a vast 17 years later with Future X-Cops in 2010 – a film that was blasted by most critics and fans for its bad CGI and poor writing, with only Andy Lau returning from this original and Tony Ching Siu Tung delivering the fight action once again. And while I certainly think it had its moments and entertained to a point, this modern adaptation was certainly no Future Cops for a number of reasons. So to sum it all up, it would only be fair to say that this is one of those movies that has to be seen to be believed. Sure, it's far from perfect, often looks cheap in production values, and offers plenty of childish antics, but just the sheer energy alone of this live-action cartoon is worth watching for the experience!
Overall: Outrageous, insane, hilarious and showcasing some of the wildest martial-arts action ever seen in Hong Kong cinema, Future Cops is ridiculous yet entertaining, and deserves to be seen!
Eureka Video Blu-ray Extras: Audio Commentary by Mike Leeder & Arne Venema, Audio Commentary by Frank Djeng, Super Street Culture Turbo Featurette, Original Theatrical Trailer
Universe DVD Extras: Trailers, Star Bios
Watch my unboxing video for this Eureka Video release HERE
Watch my video retrospective for this film HERE
