My dream came true in March 2008 when I went to Hong Kong and visited the Shaw Studios in Clearwater Bay area of Hong Kong.

Source: ez board kung fu fandom member peringaten

1. DISCIPLES OF SHAOLIN: Quite simply, in my opinion (emphasis), the finest kung fu film ever made (emphasis on the 'kung fu', not a general martial heading inclusive wuxia, fantasy, modern, etc.), or again, that I've yet seen. Honestly, with all the diversity, all the different films and styles and individual merits of each, (now inclusive the afforementioned header), none have stood out for me like this one. And A LOT have stood out for me. I honestly believe this Chang Cheh's greatest achievement - which again is kind of a moot point, especially concerning the phases, periods and differing concerns worked into such a prolific output throughout.

I can also genuinely understand why this film will not affect others remotely similarly to the way it has me; of course, all dependant upon preference. Whilst I honestly believe it his finest crafted film, I can definitely sympathise it's in no way his most fun - unless like me you're digging on the crafting of it all. In which case I personally think it's his most engrossing.

Put it this way - I think this film is the finest character study I have ever seen from this genre. It also represents.... blah, blah, blah - to be continued and edited...
This fucker romanced me like no other. I am in love with this film.

DON'T WORRY ABOUT ALL THIS TEXT - I'M GONNA EDIT IT ALL DOWN, NICE CONCISE AND SUCCINCT. Just want to do the film justice.

it's probably one of the finest crafted films vital director Chang Cheh ever made; not his most fun for many by a long shot - for me though, yes - certainly one of his most realistic instead; certainly one of his most experimental, so far as playing with the conventions of technical filmmaking goes; certainly one of his most character driven studies - one of his deepest; and with a great showing of proper traditional Hung Gar fist martial forms - a beautiful opening display!! No acrobatics or such eye candy - just true forms against a plain background with a fantastic musical swell.
It lacks particularly strong central villains in the usual martial sense - this is a different type of film. More a character study of a kid particularly gifted amongst foes; and focuses around the fate of a cotton mill - not remotely the most gripping plot for most viewers considering the extremities of the genre, but I find that a strength - it's much more authentic than the usual...
Most importantly, director CC is almost never on such form as here, and he made some brilliant films (saying that though - those who love crazy choreo will disagree and cite other flicks - I'm talking straight beautiful character driven crafted cinema as I perceive it) - this is his peak of excellence I believe - the black and white scenes (the majority of the film is colour) mixed with the most tremendous swells of music hit hard and emotionally. Perhaps the most beautifully musically constructed kung fu film of all time, entirely despite the borrowed nature of the soundtrack - characters have themes, situations too - just deftly done. Lead actor Fu Sheng gives the performance of a lifetime...
Basically most kung films I dig for badass factors, I overlook flaws, etc. for extremities, fun, outlandishness, other forms of craftsmenship in lieu. This film truly romanced me - I fell for every aspect of it. Love.
I tried it on a mate the other day... not his bag, he wanted something that hit harder - I don't know if it's just because I'm getting deeper into the genre - but so far as I'm concerned this is the apex of kung fu filmmaking. I'm besotted. I can't even describe...


2. TIGER KILLER: Respect.
Anyone who tries to tell you all old-school films are plotless, low budget, poorly acted schlock should be made to sit down and watch this film in a Clockwork Orange stylee before being made to humbly eat such ridiculous notions accordingly.

This multiple award winning film is literally a masterpiece and one of my all time favourites.

Ok, its not strictly a martial arts film bar a scuffle or two, an actual fight with a tiger, a few acrobatics here and there, and a furious Tang Chia/Wong Pau Gei-orchestrated finale theres not a whole lot of fighting going on in the usual animal forms and shape-pulling kung fu sense, but much about it qualifies it of interest for the genre fan.

Released in 1982, this Shaw Brothers film represents arguably (but specifically to my mind) auteur director Li Han Hsiangs finest achievement, which if you are in any way familiar with Hsiangs work is probably quite a bold statement (particularly consiring the markedly different Last Tempest in my case)
Of all the remarkable directors to grace Shaw Brothers studios over the decades Li Han Hsiang is undoubtedly in the running as perhaps their finest, not necessarily their most entertaining mind though, or even my favourite but truly a world class talent for the ages, at the top of the tree.
I must stress, with the exception of this film and elements of his classic Emperor Chien Lung series, Li Han Hsiang was NOT a martial arts film director
Working prolifically at Shaws from the 50s onwards he pretty quickly established himself as one of their most respected, top draw, and successful directors. In fact so much so he was entrusted with, and called the shots on some of their biggest productions, helming perhaps their largest ever in 1975s historical epic (definitely not kung fu) The Empress Dowager and its sequel The Last Tempest the following year.
As was his want he stamped an incredible signature style on everything he did, to the point that in many ways he really helped to define the overall classic Shaw Brothers style, regardless of genre.

He found his first real successes with the Huangmei Opera genre of film of which he pretty much pioneered. Huangmei opera, a form of musical play as its name would of course suggest, derived from traditional Chinese folk songs and dances in the 18th century. Directing his first Huangmei Opera in 1958s Diau Charn; a decent success, Shaws happily upped the budget for Hsiangs subsequent Opera films. The even more popular The Kingdom And The Beauty followed before Hsiang and Shaws hit pay dirt with the 1963 classic The Love Eterne (a film even remade by director Tsui Hark years later).
Huangmei films were often simple linear tales of morality, love and tragedy in traditional Chinese settings with the cast emotionally singing their way through the plot, often with women in the role of men; however as the genre was milked throughout the mid-60s its popularity died out.
The Love Eterne was a smash hit all over South East Asia (particularly Taiwan), the sort of film you hear about running in theatres for years with individuals seeing it nigh on hundreds of times.

Anyway the reason Im going on about all this is to highlight the work of this great director and his influence No expense had been spared on the production of The Love Eterne, with perhaps its main influence towards later Shaw films being in the set design. They really went overboard on the sets for this one literally bringing the outdoors indoors for full elemental visual control to staggering effect, a trademark for with which Shaw Brothers consistently just upped the ante time and time again through to the mid-80s. As you perhaps well know, some of their sets have to be seen to be believed as they repeatedly created mind-boggling escapist insular worlds at their whim who would have thought martial arts films could look so good!
Following his earlier successes Hsiang went on to become a director of (non-musical) historically grounded films of great repute, no expense or antiqued detail spared, cinematography of the highest order and the finest acting talents on offer. Literally showing like no other the full might of Shaw Brothers in full force; a flagship auteur. He also divulged very comfortably and fondly into making erotic movies churning out many bawdy period romps, which along the way helped fund the period dramas he so masterfully created.

Anyway, thats what makes this film, Tiger Killer, so special; this one great talents foray into the hardcore revenge themed genre. The film is somewhat of a take on the well known tale of Lotus Pan taken from the classic text 'Outlaws Of The Marsh' which also bore the 108 heroes Water Margin legends, but here emotionally geared to the extreme
He literally pushes 3 of Shaw Brothers finest actors beyond their limits: Ku Feng and Wang Ping, who won best supporting actor and best actress at the 1982 Golden Horse film awards respectively, and Shaw martial stalwart Ti Lung.

Ku Feng is the most criminally unrecognised actor, particularly by Western audiences, I have ever come across. The man is a character acting genius, a man who commands celluloid with a gravitas that the best any nation, including Hollywood, could ever offer would find hard to match. Ive seen this man in performance after performance, from untold kung fu films to drama, and he never fails to amaze. So convincing and wildly varying are his roles that I saw umpteen of his movies before realising they were all the same guy! He mastered all his parts from emperors to commoners, to hoodlums to old patriarchs with an unmatched ease.
This film is perhaps his single most definitive performance. He draws you in to his characters world in the most remarkably convincing emotive way, however, and get this he does it playing a deformed MIDGET this is a full grown man were talking about!

Right so far we have Shaws at the height of their experience, one of their finest directors tackling MA revenge themes, and their finest character actor in his most challenging role - next ingredient, Wang Ping
Wang Ping, an intensely beautiful actress truly goes out on a limb here to give an awe-inspiring performance. Having acted for Shaws in the early 70s in influential classics the likes of King Boxer before leaving for Taiwanese productions she was coaxed back to the studios by Li Han Hsiang for this film (man, did he make the right choice there!). She plays the adulterous Lotus Pan, a woman forced to marry Ku Fengs midget character after getting caught in a compromising situation with her advantageous old master.
Not afraid to get naked for the role, and it really is in the name of art, her performance is simply brilliant and daring, not only that but she plays a woman with tiny bound feet (her real ones normal, yet convincingly bound upon tiptoe) nuff said!

Next up, Ti Lung... Of course, one of the all time legends of martial arts cinema, Ti Lung was one of Shaws biggest stars in this respect. Here, in one of his most emotionally involved performances, he plays the fully formed heroic younger brother to Ku Fengs midget. After fleeing the town where he and his brother live in poverty having taken some casualties in a fight, and after a number of years training in the Shaolin temple he returns a local hero having killed a tiger that was terrorising the town's outskirts - with his barehands. Finding his brother married to the amorous Lotus Pan he soon discovers her frustration and dislike of being forced to marry such a lowly midget pauper, and soon discovers the distasteful measures she and her adulterous accomplices (including Liu Yung, a frequent face in Bruce Lee's films) will go to remedy such a situation.

The scene is set for some of the greatest and bleakest revenge imaginable, with our final fight, whilst lacking in the martial shapes and forms many purists desire from their kung films, more than exceeding expectations in its spine tingling emotional intensity. It truly is a fine piece of cinema as the tremendous interplay between the actors steam trains the film (as it did my involvement) to its knockout of a conclusion, wonderfully orchestrated by legendary choreographer Tang Chia and regular partner Wong Pei Gau. HARDCORE.

Now I have to say a little note on the unique interplay between Ku Feng and Ti Lung within this film. So far as I'm concerned together they make up one of the finest celluloid partnerships I've ever come across, not necessarily in so far as just being paired up as a team, but in so far as just sharing screen time together. The empathy between these two is incredible - they both inspire the other to greater heights of performance every time they appear together. I guess as players at the very top of their game within the Shaw empire; one their leading character actor, the other their heroic leading man; there was a lack of any real competition between the two, resulting in a pure spontaneous and appreciative interplay within the numerous films they appeared together. No film I've seen exemplifies this greater than Tiger Killer, the emotional bond of brotherhood themed within this film taken to a level few if any actors could ever hope to achieve. They take this film to a height of emotional investment on the viewers part few others could parry.

The production itself is really high level, with a beautifully orchestrated and evocative musical score, a well developed somewhat unpredictable storyline, and otherworldly sets and cinematography. The sets themselves are breathtaking, as we actually see them skilfully blend through the seasons to denote the passing of time and mood. From a snow laden winter, through spring and summer and the blooming of the plum blossoms, they are an epic filmic achievement. Perhaps the only questionable scene is the tiger fight itself, whilst a real tiger was used for the long shots, grappling I guess its trainer doubling Ti Lung, the interspersed close ups featuring our star show an obvious stuffed animal. Now I know most MA actors push themselves for their performances, but I doubt too many were about to go ruff n tumble with a live big cat If anything such minor schlocky moments here and there in relationship to the rest of the film's rare majesty remind that if anything this film is an entertainment masterpiece. Give in to this film, it really is a one off.

Right at the very top of my favourites list, all films, all genres, of all time.


3. ONE ARMED SWORDSMAN: 1967 saw the release of this, the first martial arts film to gross over $1 million at domestic box office, making its star - Jimmy Wang Yu a huge sensation over Asia, and casting a prototype for all future MA stars to follow.
Definitely not a great martial artist the likes of those that followed him, he actually joined Shaws as a swimmer, the discipline giving him the athletic standing to pull off such demanding roles. Plus it helped that the man was a badass who bled charisma on-screen... some may disagree... I think this film alone is more than testament to such standing.

Given his prime breaks by director Chang Cheh, this film really broke the two of them loose. Scripted by director Chang Cheh and I Kuang, here they came up with, to my mind, perhaps the ultimate martial movie plotline, one that is utterly timeless and influential... I'll try and avoid too many spoilers...

As a child our young protaganist witnesses the death of his father, a servant, protecting his poisoned master from ambush. Despite being mortally wounded, and his sword actually broken in two our young hero's father fights to the bitter end slaying the attackers. As he lays bleeding to death his weakened master, himself a great swordsman, promises, in return for such loyal service to raise the about-to-be-orphaned son as his own.
As our young hero's father dies in front of his son, the child takes hold of said broken sword...
Cut to the young adult Jimmy Wang Yu (his character's name - Fang Gang), some years later cradling the broken sword (and now a fine martial artist) to the opening credits and a phenomenal appropriated musical score and you know this film's gonna mean business.

What proceeds is an almost fairytale-like (in the best dark fashion) story following the unfortunate mishaps of poor Fang Gang, told in a finely immersive consistent linear framework.
We witness as he's rejected by the master's real children and priviledged students as a mere servant's child, ultimately even losing his right arm because of this.
Now this to me was the most shocking part of the movie as upon first viewing i just wasn't expecting it to happen in this way - i knew he'd lose an arm, but i just weren't expecting it like this.
I'm going to avoid saying how, but for me this film was all the more real for the way it happened.
Director Tsui Hark remade this film in the mid-'90s as "The Blade" and was quoted as saying (seriously paraphrasing here) that a martial artist would never lose an arm like this - it should happen in battle. Nah, my man Tsui - that sucks. They did it perfectly here. The notions of fallibility, chivalry, and the castrated swordsman.

Sure this film has its faults - the fighting, though swift and effective, is now very dated, some bits are just too coincidental - he loses his right arm but gains a manual ripped in half containing only the left arm fighting techniques, with which he develops a one armed fighting style(!) - Plus, yeah you should have way more blood loss if you lose an arm...

But none of this matters - the film is an escapist's dream, full of fairytale martial wonder. If you can suspend disbelief, you are presented with a stylistic wonder of audio visual entertainment. This film has soul and charisma coursing through its every frame.
A marvellous timeless plot that deals with themes of isolation, despair and acceptance with all the responsibility and hurt that comes with being a part of the martial world, and the quest for peace.

With some truly memorable stylistic flairs, the dreamlike snowy sets and accompanying music, and the fantastically memorable scene of a masked Wang Yu fighting in the dark, pure style bottled on film, Chang Cheh presents us with one of the finest early swordplay epics and the definitive performance of a young Wang Yu. He just plays it cool. The teahouse battle towards the end is the perfect highlight of this - one of old school cinemas coolest fights - facing numerous enemies, and with just the right amount of stress, anger, want for peace, coolness under pressure and numerous other emotions coursing through him that define the film's tones, ol' Jimmy Wang plays this motherfucker to a T.

Many fans have their favourites in the crippled fighter genre, but this was the one that blew it all up, and to my mind did it the best - the underlying themes and superior innovative stylings elevate.

4. 8 Diagram Pole Fighter.
5. Devil's Mirror.

6. THE LAST TEMPEST: Li Han Hsiang has here once again proved himself to be Shaw's greatest filmmaking talent in my estimation...

Could "The Last Tempest" be Shaw's "best" film of the '70s... as regards pure filmmaking finesse, production, relevence even, in most respects (not however in the sense of pure visceral entertainment, as you may imagine).

Personally I of course veer towards kung fu productions to get my Shaw kicks, but in the sense of artistic 'truly cinematic' achievement have seen nothing else to rival this film from the studio's '70s output... for one, the cinematography sets this film apart, no antiquated detail spared, every shot masterfully composed. The sets never looked better - A moot point perhaps, but: if only every Shaw film could capture them this mightily.
Every actor is in remarkable form, Lisa Lu particularly magnificent, Yueh Hua leaping notches in my estimation for a nigh-on film stealing performance...

This film's earlier companion piece "The Empress Dowager" was a good film, however one with which I partially struggled as regards pacing, staging and theatricality... a superior film, well worthy of respect, but lacking that certain something over production value to really push it up there I felt...
However having now seen The Last Tempest, the predecessor seems like somewhat of a dry run towards the greatness of its engrossing follow up... a standalone film.
The Last Tempest just seems more intricately constructed, more deftly woven and balanced to create the whole...

And most importantly packs the resonance to suggest the bigger picture outside of its intimate portrayal of the inner monarchical power struggles...
Something I felt partially didn't come across within "The Empress Dowager's" more drawn out, even slightly theatrical large scale presentation, here now delivered to the epic yet more personable hilt.

Every nation has a few great cinematic works stemming from each decade...
Could this be the finest achievement of HK cinema as a whole from that decade even...?? Not in terms of influence, or perhaps 'entertainment', but in terms of sheer cinematic artistry. Perhaps cultural or historical importance as regards subject matter...


7. Killer Constable.
8. Shaolin Intruders.
9. Rendezvous With Death.

10. WHAT PRICE HONESTY: WHAT PRICE HONESTY!! This film is NICE!!

Now this is what I want from my Shaw flicks! This film brings the DARKNESS!! No stupid comedy or light moments here!! This film is about:

Smashing things.
Fighting.
Beheadings.
Corruption.
Greed.
R.O.U.G.H. Justice.
Stabbings.
The Guando.
Sword Slashes.
Dirty dank cells full of rats, centipedes, cockroaches and crazed criminals.
Hanging.
Humiliation.
Robberies.
Cops.
A Funeral.
Nudity.
Attempted rapes.
Arrows.
Slaughter.
Unfounded punishment.
More smashing things.
More fighting.
Framings.
Loss of appendages.
Thunder.
Rain.
Torture.
Beatings.
The bleakness.
The darkness.
Little redemption.
Blood.

Hell, this film starts as it means to go on! A credit sequence of swords and fire!! And blood!! And fire!! And swords slashing blood which drips to wash out the fire!!

Man, this film rocks HARDCORE. Doesn't let up - all about the drama. When it lets up from the smashing and stuff, it has nice dramatic scenes building the tension and characters, with some badass music use - nice sets, and verve. Great plot - unpredictable, VERY nicely balanced, unfolds brilliantly, and got me on the edge of my seat with a few jaw dropping moments. I let out a long "DAMMMNNNN!!!!!" when it finished.

I think what I liked about it was how harmoniously it balanced the narrative framework and the more visceral immediate elements. It's almost as if they made a list like that above and said right this is what the film's about - let's construct it around all this... Yet somehow strung all that into what seems like a perfect framework - as if the framework came and just supported the inclusion of these elements alongside and within its nice rolling twists and themes... Mild spoiler here: One thing that really grabbed me, and for sure deftly balanced the whole flick out yet further was the nice juxtaposition of the Temple Of Chivalry setpieces either side of the film's running time. The way the parallels of Pai Piao's and Lo Lieh's opposing characters reflected each other into mirrored actions yet their different standpoints ending up in a similar scenario. Great stuff. Satisfying in all respects imo; worked on a couple of levels inviting you to think or just sit back and enjoy the corruption. What price honesty indeed.

This film delivers! The fighting's nice - not so much about the shapes, but enhancing the plot and darkness. Obviously late era Shaws choreo, and plenty fighty, but the film is more roughhousing and bruising than straight-up kung, though the movements are there. Swordplay mostly, but we get a couple of fights with chains, knives and guandos, etc... For instance Sun Chien's in there, but you won't see him kicking, more nicely jabbering about with a sword. There is no undercranking, and what the fighting pace is (not overly speedy generally, but nice) fits the film extremely well. Don't expect venoms type choreo, but do expect some nice rough scenes. There's a great one vs many sword and spear fight in that teahouse we see in Human Lanterns and Tiger Killer where everyone goes for it. Good stuff. Constables barreling about with swords and things. Casualties...
Feels designed as an action flick to me.

If I had one complaint it would be the lighting in places seemed a little stagier than the usual Shaw production (odd shadows and stuff), but that's kind of moot when considering the nicely set scenes.

Director Yuan Hou Chan, seemingly young and full of verve, knew the score when he was making this flick - keep it dark and rolling. I'd call it an action flick - a dark action flick. In the positive sense, wonderfully darkly schlocky and exploititive and a WHOLE lot of asskicking fun.

Though not too similar... a gem in the manner Soul Of The Sword turned out to be seems an apt descript... This film puts the likes of Secret Service Of The Imperial Court and Deadly Secret (films with which it bears very vague similarities) firmly in their place imo, for want of a better descript if you get my gist.

A BLEAK TREAT!!!



11. KID WITH A TATTOO: I absolutely love Kid With A Tattoo - some seem to think it a lesser Sun Chung work, but man, of his films, it's one of those that REALLY grabs me - probably my most rewatched of his.

It's kind of similarish to Sun Chung's My Rebellious Son in tone, pairs up very nicely, but sub Fu Sheng for Wong Yue - kind of akin to the way Rendezvous With Death is similarish in tone to Avenging Eagle.

I think I like Kid more than MRS. The choreo in Kid is solid, nothing too exceptional, but nice, but mixed with the direction, the cuts, slo-mo, tracking shots etc., it's wonderful, and then exceptional. Sun Chung shows why he's one of the VERY best here - a true testament to his ability, particularly technically (the term here incorporates a soulfulness which leads to his technical coherence and particular unique genius to me) - just the sum parts of this film don't provide the raw material to make it one of the best.

I can agree it's not the best of Sun Chung's films in most respects - the story is alright, the end not the greatest, the choreo just solid, the comedy just endearing (but I found it a lot of fun - never grating), the characters kind of non-exceptional - BUT the sheer fun and flair of it all makes it one of the most satisfyingly curious and appealing of all his to me - the one I'll revisit most for sure.

Just when it hits right, certain exceptionally masterful sequences, I'm taken. Catharthis. Don't expect a lot and see it for what it is - imo, proper fluff constructed with a real genius. Still fluff and in some respects lesser Shaw stuff, but kind of elevated; soooo well crafted in several respects, lovingly so - it's a wonder, beautifully done, mediocre, a shame, and brilliantly masterful all at the same time.

Can't describe it any other way. Wouldn't have it any other way. Some sort of schizo manna in affect.


 

Shaw Bros movies to watch series:  I Will Finally Knock You Down, Dad (1984)

Chen Chung stars in this Shaw Brothers-produced kung-fu saga directed by Hsu Hsia. Chin Siu-ho (Chung) is the reckless scion of a highly respected family. When he and his buddies harass the workers of a dye mill, the owner Lung goes over to the Chin residence and challenges the lad to a fight. Siu-ho loses so completely that it shames his father, prompting him to cancel Siu-ho's wedding and sever all ties with his son. Out on the street and looking to restore his name, he meets up with an itinerant Shaolin monk who eventually teaches him some kung-fu. When Siu-ho challenges his father, however, he realizes that the monk was little more than a charlatan. The defeat really stokes Siu-ho's fires and soon he is in top fighting form.

Image courtesy of Unregistered (member name) from ezboard kung fu fandom.   Image also appeared on http://www.smcnutt.com

ShawscopeDOTcom's video clip of the week. From the classic flick To Kill A Mastermind.  Right mouse click HERE and select save as to download this clip (approx. 35MB)

Image courtesy of Unregistered (member name) from ezboard kung fu fandom.   Image also appeared on http://www.smcnutt.com

Source: ez board kung fu fandom member vengeanceofhumanlanterns

 Human Lanterns 82' (without question one of Lo Lieh's most daring roles, besides the unique storyline, the choreography of the fight scenes are amazing, then you up the anty with a cameo/fight with the awesome Lo Mang. this films storyline makes a profound statement on the possibilities of what can happen when a man is shamed beyond his capacity to contain it. especially if that person is dejected and an outcast already, resulting in an outburst of calculated madness which motivated by this intense, emotional anguish, creates an unpredictable, unstoppable monster. such is the depth of, and are the psychopathic meanderings, which Lo Lieh's character in this film present to viewers as something almost supernatural.)

Have Sword Will Travel 69' (a very well done film and an excellent performance by David Chiang, as with Ti Lung, and Ku Feng never looked so cool. the continuity is seemless in this film. the animosity between David Chiang and Ti Lung is tangible and Li Ching's inevitable transition from Ti Lung toward the starving, drifter/master swordsman, who's only trusted friend is his horse, is believable. there's a great scene concerning this matter in the storyline as well. Wang Chung is excellent here as the Ghost Mute.)

The Black Butterfly 68' (a great, yet very under-rated film. Chiao Chiao, Yueh Hua, Ku Feng, Fan Mei Sheng, Tien Feng, Chen Hung Lieh, the great director himself as the main villian, Lo Wei. This film is probably his greatest effort and a complete bloodbath in the conclusion. Superb acting by all concerned and completely unpredictable. VCD only right now, for english speaking fans anyway.)

King Cat 67' (another under-rated film. This is possibly Chiao Chuang's greatest role as the Brocaded Mouse. Chang Yi provides a role which proved his regal position among the Shaws guild. a very beatifully shot film with an extremely amusing storyline. some of the fighting is japanese quality choreographing.)

Twelve Deadly Coins 69' (the sets in this film are highly inventive, the awesome and legendary character actor, Fang Mien is the main villian in this film. Lo Lieh is the misunderstood student of Tien Feng, Ching Li is adorable as ever here as well. Lo Lieh takes some very serious abuse as the captive of Fang.)

Death Valley 68' (a great Yueh Hua vehicle. superb choreographing with elaborate and very stylish sets, inventive cinematography as well. this film boasts one of Chen Hung-lieh's few -if not only- roles as a hero instead of villian. he does a suberb job here as the suspicious tool of the beautiful and bearing, Angela Yu Chien.)

The Bloody Parrot 81' (this soon to be released classic stars Jason Pai Piao with Liu Yung as co-star. the story is very dark and quite disturbing as Pia Piao totes his dead friend's corpse with him from tavern to tavern and drinks to him. this film also has the most authentic scene of an actually possessed women, we're talking a disgusting display of being possessed here. the choreographing is unsurpassable in this film as well.)

Intimate Confessions Of A Chinese Courtesan 77' (one of director Chu Yuan's greatest films. His tempo with the storyline not at all convoluted, the seemless choreographed fighting, the intricate plot matched with the ultra-stylish sets. a masterpiece of cinematic presentation.)

The Blood Brothers 72' (an epic feature with Ti Lung as the upstart hero who falls in love with reckless ruffian, Chen Kuan Tai's beautiful wife Ching Li, this spells doom for Ti Lung as he makes irreversible decisions resulting in revenge from another of the brothers David Chiang.)

Swordsman And The Enchantress 78' (Ti Lung and Ching Li together again with Ti Lung as an outcast hermit like ruffian with a heart of gold saves Ching Li from being raped by a relative and his evil instigator. this results in her once again falling in love with Ti Lung although she's married to Liu Yung, this results in an awesome duel between the two, but the plot, storyline and unfolding of events do not stop there. highly imaginitive story here.)

The Duel 71' (one of Chang Cheh's greatest efforts, along with The Heroic Ones and Vengeance, Ti Lung takes responsibility for his fathers murder after a rival gang fight, this results in his ultimately returning to find out he's been deceived, he then becomes determined to unveil the truth and exact revenge, just about everybody in the Shaws retinue at the time were in this film including David Chiang and Ku Feng. there is an excellent scene where Ti Lung goes to the brothel to see if his former fiance was actually working there and betrayed her loyalty to him, very heavy scene, with intensley emotional output, in fact this whole film is very intense.)

Vengeance 70' (one of David Chiang's most grimly determined revenge roles. Ti Lung dies horribly at the hands of Ku Fengs gang, after insulting Ku Feng in front of his whole gang, instructing him to never flirt with his wife again, or else... David Chiang returns to the scene of the crime to mete out justice and an all out bloodbath ensues.)


The Venom's Films:

The Flag Of Iron 80' ( somewhat of a rehashed storyline of The Duel, but an entirely different movie. Kuo Chui takes Ti Lung's role over and returns to decipher what he fears may be true, with the help of Chiang Sheng. Lu Feng is the deceitful madman here and he kicks some serious ass at the end of the film. authentic chinese operatic choreographing with the use of the flags/spears. very colorful and fantastically choreographed.)

The Magnificent Ruffians 79' (probably the most realistic, serious, and depressing of all the Venom's output. Chiang Sheng, Wang Li, Sun Chien, and Kuo Chui are homeless vagabonds who resort to eating at restaurants and taking turns with who'll receive the beating for not paying -Kuo Chui meets the other three during one of these happenings- Lo Mang provides a great role here with his usual bravo and Lu Feng as the bloodless master who cruelly kills all oponents he spars with, does a fantastic job. the choreographing near the end especially is amazing. at times you can see that if Kuo Chui and Chiang Sheng didn't duck in time Lu Feng would have shorn their heads clean off. matchless choreographing here.)

House Of Traps 81' (this rare film had circulated for decades as a bootleg (basically) unwatchable for english speaking fans. i've just veiwed the remastered version and i must say i was very pleased with every aspect of this film. the storyline, the acting, the plot, and especially the fighting. all are spot on solid. the fighting near the end is amazing especially on Wang Li's and Lu Feng's parts.

one of the princes decides he's gonna revenge his father's premature death. so he builds the House Of Traps to accomplish this end. Lu Feng starts the story off with stealing a precious jade horse presenting it to said prince for proof of his loyalty. they decide to lock it up in the House Of Traps in case the emperor gets any smart ideas. after some appropriate storyline dynamics Kuo Chui shows up with the Pearl Crown to express his loyalty to the scheming prince. Lu Feng and he already exhibit some animosity with Kuo's copy cat offer to the prince. Kuo then heads out to further prove his loyalty.

Chien Hsiao-hou does a great job fighting and acting wise. Though he's in no way the lead actor in the film.

the film has an excellent cast: Wang Li (Lord Bao), Lu Feng (Butterfly Hua), Kuo Chui (Black Fox), Lung Tien-chiang / spearman of death guy (Shen Zhong Yuan), Sun Chien (Yan Chun Min), Chiang Sheng (The River Rat).

the pacing is just fine. there's plenty of action interjecting the dialogue throughout the entire film and the storyline is solid.

the fighting throughout is superb, especially between Kuo Chui and Lu Feng, also near the end between Wang Li and his two opponents Chiang Sheng and his partner. Wang Li does this great move with his weapon. As Wang is engaged with Chiang and co. he locks his two hooked swords together by the hooks and swings them at his adversary then unhooks them and continues his barrage on his two opponents. Dosen't sound like much, but the seemless flow to this very well practiced choreographed scene is highly impressive. In fact, the choreographing throughout the film, especially near the end is incredibly well rehearsed. it flows very naturally and comes off extremely realistic as a result. near the end of the film I found myself endlessly rewinding fight scenes to see just how well orchestrated they actually were. we're talking lighting fast, real speed, choreographing here.

(An after thought) you kinda get the feeling Chang Cheh was somewhat in someway trying to accomodate Kuo Chui and Lu Feng during their confrontations so as to not incite (actual) resentment with favoring either's role (or character) with being the more proficient killer while filming House Of Traps for fear of either actor possibly walking angrily off the set, as they are very evenly matched here. i don't know, just passed through my mind while watchin the end fights, especially.

Oh, by the way, i'd definitely give this film a 8.5/10 )

Life Gamble 78' (one of the earliest Venom's feature's with the choreographing not done by the Venom's themselves. this is a storyline first action later film and not the strongest in representatiion of the Venom's abilities, however this is a great character oriented film and Fu Sheng does great with one of his few parts in a Venom's film other than, Heaven And Hell and the Brave Archer series.)

Five Deadly Venom's 78' (the first feature devoted specifically to Kuo Chui, Chiang Sheng, Lu Feng, Sun Chien, and Lo Mang, not one of their strongest films, but nonetheless a charming depiction of their skills. the storyline and action is very well paced as well.

Crippled Avengers 78' (Chang Cheh put together a better storyline this time and suped up the characters in this the second bonified Venom's feature. Throwing Chen Kuan Tai into the cast guaranteed success. The Chiang Sheng's character is a little silly at times and the honing of extraordinary skills taught to the cripples is very far fetched, this is not what venom's fans are much concerned with, it's the character of each actor and the fight choreographs which are most important here, and both are truly delivered.)

The Kid With The Golden Arm 79' (yet another of the great Venom's films with Kuo Chui playing a very entertaing role as the drunken Hai Tao. the story is a bit silly, but then again it's the characters and their fighting abilities we're concerned with here. Lo Mang is truly show cased here along with Kuo Chui and then you have Sun Chien cast in rare form as a villian the ending fights are extremly well done here.)

Ode To Gallantry 82' (a nice piece of work approaching the end of the Venom's reign in martial art cinema. here we have Wang Li cast as one of the baddest asses of the storyline. strong storyline,coupled with perfectly choreographed fights , though a bit sparse, still you through the likes of Tien Ping in there and you have an excellent film. Also in this film Chiang Sheng plays a very different and effective role as a white faced villian.)

Legend Of The Fox 81' (here we have Chiang Sheng as the villian a role he dosen't usually possess. The is alot of fighting in this film between Lu Feng and Kuo Chui respectively, both are honorable men, but through the trickery of Chiang Sheng tragedy unfolds and revenge becomes the determination and fate of the characters involved. great film.)

Two Champion's Of Shaolin 80' (Lo Mang is up against the entirely deceitful Lu Feng who does a tremendous job with his role here as the Monkey King of his three masked, monkey hitmen. when he first meets Lo Mang at the grave of someone he'd just murdered he delivers a truly excellent performance. although laying out silken rugs and exquisite dishes before the unaware guests Lo Mang and co. he then goes on to explain that, "me? I'm a nobody, just a traveling scholar, certaintly not as important as you famous fighters." we're talking spot on delivery with his lines here. this is the english dubbed version I'm citing here.)

Shaolin Rescuers 79' (Kuo Chui and Lo Mang start this one off as good friends who work for unappreciative employers. Pai Piao is on the run as he was wounded, comes across Lo Mang and Kuo Chui who discover who this famous rebel is when Sun Chien reads it to them. this scene is very amusing. before Sun chien arrives to read the letter to them Lo Mang is holding the document upside down, sideways, clueless as to its content, so Kuo Chui grabs it from him with a "here, let me see that, you can't read." where as Lo Mang's somewhat ashamed he instantly realises kuo Chui cannot read it himself. very humorous scene right there. in fact the story is peppered with them. great film.)

Invincible Shaolin 80' (here we have Wei Pai return to the Venom's roster. this a really good Venom's film IMO. the fighting is excellent the treachery believable, and the inability to clear the misunderstanding between North and South Shaolin up is well depicted here. this film has some of the very best training sequences ever filmed as does Marco Polo, far fetched i know, but highly entertaining.)


Other Venom's films are:

The Brave Archer Series 1 - 4 (the first being one of the best of this series.)

Heaven And Hell (a fragmentary collage of films pieced together over a year or so of filming off and on for this feature.)

Marco Polo (only Kuo Chui in this one, yet great film all around.)

there are more ie: The Joyful Goddess and The Death Ring (the latter is a Lu Feng directed film which has Chen Kuan Tai in the first half of the film as well as Lu Feng and notable others, but the second half is like a completely different film and NOT in a good way.


Avenging Eagle 78' (probably one of THE best written storlines in the Shaws library throw in a cameo with the fighting instructor Tang Chia who meticulously worked on the fighting in this film with the obvious full co-operation of the continuity specialist and the directer and you have a masterpiece. Ti Lung is the renegade Eagle from the Iron Eagle clan and Ku Feng as the master of which dosen't allow for any descension in his clan -Ku Feng is truly in top form here as usual and deserves to be considered one of the greatest actors Shaws ever graced the silver screen with- this film boasts of the most intense two on one fights ever filmed. there are others but this is some intense battling here. not to mention the script for this film is elaborate, emotionally charged, and as sincere as they can be. one of the top ten best films of the genre.)

Shaolin Mantis 78' (David Chiang stars in this Liu Chia Yung directed masteroiece on the origins of the Mantis Fist style. the fights in the end of the film which takes up the last third of the storyline are simply amazing and the homage paid to each weapon used and their benefits and drawbacks is stylish and educational on weaponry use

The Heroic Ones 70' (an allstar stellar cast and the most invested film of it's time -a reported million dollars or more was apparently spent on this production- Ku feng, deservedly is cast as the father of a clan of sons who are all very good warriors. david chiang and Ti Lung are his favorites though and this is beginning to offend some their siblings leading to revolt and tragedy for the entire family. this film probably has one of the highest or THE highest body count of any Shaw Brothers film. Bolo even makes an apparence in the beginning of the story. extremely well written and all out prduction with fine acting make this film a must have by any Shaw Bros. collector.

Bells Of Death 68' (this is one Chang Yi's best roles and the martial arts in this film are of japanese quality. Ku Feng is one of three villians who've brutally murdered Chang Yi's family. Chang meets a master martial artist and is honored by him with being taught how to fight with exceptional talent. great film.)

Shaolin Intruders 83' (an all out extravaganza of martial arts prowess, some of the most difficult and dangerous stunt work are featured in this film, great storyline as well. Pai Piao and Derek Yee are the heroes bent on unveiling an evil sect among the monks in Shaolin Temple known as the Devil's Brood. Chan Shen does fantastic as the head monk and this is probably one of Kao Fei's best roles. some of the stunts have to be seen to be believed. a must have film.

Come Drink With Me 66' (Pei Pei is wonderful in her role and Yueh Hua as the drunken beggar incognito is fantastic here. this film boast the inspiration for what was to become martial arts cinema in the Shaw Brothers productions.)

Twelve Gold Medallions 68' (Yeuh Hua does an excellent ob here, but he's not the baddest ass of the film, it's actually two older veteran actors Ching Miao and Yang Chi-ching, where they exhibit what must be some of the most powerful kung fu skills ever filmed.

King Boxer 68' (one of the best Lo Lieh films and what an amazing cast. excellent pacing and a very well rounded story. the fights are very good in this film, one actor inparticular, Kam Chi Ku (or Gam Kei Chu) has a techinique in which he head butts his opponent into oblivion. he executes this very well. supposedly this was the film that started the kung fu craze in the states. Bruce Lee aside.)

The New One-Armed Swordsman 71' (the stupid name to this film aside, David Chiang, Ku Feng, and Ti Lung kick some serious ass here. Ti Lung meets a gruesome end in this one, a shocking scene, to say the least. Ku Feng with the three section staff is masterful as ever and a real pleasure to watch. IMHO this film actually out does it two predecessors.)

Challenge Of The Masters 76' (anyone who wants to see authentic techniques of kung fu should own this film. Liu Chia Yung and his brother Liu Chia Liang have it out in this story and their duel is by far one of the highlights of this film. Chen Kuan Tai has excellent script to work with here as well. He informs his pupil Gordon Liu, "you have the right humility, this virtue is much more important than kung fu, when you beat a man in a fight you've only won a physical match, but if you can win his heart, well then, you'll have his loyalty. that is the way real kung fu should be. forgive men and forebear." excellent dialogue.)

The Flying Guillotine 74' (a great film all around very well shot considering the weapon and how it's used. Chen Kuan Tai does some fine acting here as well. Not a ton of fighting, but what you do see is well done. Ku Feng is great here as well. this film also has two following sequels, The Flying Guillotine II, and thirdly, Vengeful Beauty. this film is told as a traditional and realistic depiction of the history of this unique weapon which purportedly existed in medieval china. great film.)

Killer Constable 80' (easily one of Chen Kuan Tai's best roles. he is ruthless, heartless, and particularly bloodthirsty here. Ku Feng is fantastic with his role in this film. taking care of his blind daughter. Pai Piao is super cool here as the roaming swordsman. his fight with Chen Kuan Tai is superb as well.)

The Delightful Forest 72' (one of the many of Ti Lung's finest moments in his cinematic career. as hero Wu Sung Ti sets out for revenge. this film is the second in a five film series for his -Ti Lung's- character. the five films are in this order: Amorous Lotus Pan, Tiger Killer, The Delightful Forest, The Water Margin, and finally, All Men Are Brothers. the first fight is with Liu Chia Yung, who is also one of the fight instructors, there are four fighting instructors for this film. this first fight is an amazing display of form, i must say the fall from the second story balcony onto the table and he Ti lands the first punch lying on his back on top of the splintered remains Liu Chia Yung lands on his feet holding onto Ti Lung during the fall from the above balcony. it's great seeing Ti Lung do difficult stunt work like this i must say. Ti Lung's character is a drinking mad man in this story as well. a fact i'm particularly fond of. this film is of course another must have in the Shaws cannon.)

Twin Blades Of Doom 68' (very well done Ling Yun Ching Li film. directed by Doe Chin, a somewhat unknown director for this genre, anyhow. the fighting -choreographing- is excellent in this film, as well as the acting, the storyline, and the pace. the choreographing is of old school japanese quality here. VCD only as well with this truly great film.)

Shadow Of The Whip 70' (beautifully filmed picture in the dead of winter, deep snow is everywhere, lending an air of authenticity to this tale. Yueh Hua and Cheng Pei Pei star here as victims of being framed for murder. Ku Feng is in here with a particularly brutal character, -great fight scene in an outpost like tavern- . a must see for the cinematogrophy alone.)

The Black Tavern 72' (Ku Feng in one of his most vicious roles of his career. one of director Yeh Yung-tsu's earliest efforts. double crosser's incognito, cannibalism, and ruthless violence. the first half hour leads us to the Tavern from there on hold on to your ass! incredible continuity, the fighting is DEAD serious.)

The Twin Swords 65' (an incredibly important film in the wuxia films of Shaw Brothers Studios. this and it's predecessor, Temple Of The Red Lotus, are two of the earliest 'completely' swordplay films to start the genre off. there are three films to this series and they are in order: Temple Of The Red Lotus, The Twin Swords, and The Sword And The Lute. this film has some extremely serious scenes, during which there is no music, no dialogue, just intense moments of breathless gravity, especially for a very young actress caught trying to free her companions imprisoned within a fortress of traps. Ivy Ling Po, possibly Jimmy Wang Yu's 3rd major role in a motion picture. an incredible film. one of the all time classics of the genre.)

Bat Without Wings 80' (a notorious rapist/murder who takes great pleasure in his evil deeds. Ku Feng once again proves his metal in this haunting tale of hysteria and mania. Tang Ching delivers a fantastic portrayal of a man gone completely insane. the second to opening scene where the costumed, bat faced Ku Feng descends upon an unwary group of fighters, he exhibits an almost, uncanny performance of zeal in this particular scene. great escapist film.)

King Eagle 71' (Ti Lung is the King Eagle who no longer wishes to be a part of the martial world and it's corruption is unavoidably drawn into it's treacherous confines. a very well written film. possessing an old school charm that really satisfies. excellent yet minimized acrobatics, appropriate and direct dialogue, and beautifully quaint sets make this film a must have for Ti Lung fans.)

Soul Of The Sword 78' (Ti Lung is concerned with only one thing, being the #1 swordsman, Ku Feng is his shrewd nemesis. this film has one of Ti Lung's most brutal roles. i've never seen Ti Lung play such a heartless character in all the films I've seen of his participation.)

The Bastard 73' (a very different Chu Yuan film. Direct, straight forward storyline coupled with superb fighting choreographing and continuity make this a Tsung Hua classic. Tsung Hua is the humble fighter who being very naive is befriended by Lily Li -this is one of her most touching performances- who teaches the Tsung Hua the rampant lack of ethics in old world China. one Chu Yuan's most straight forward efforts.)

Duel For Gold 71' (director Chu Yuan's purported debut. Ivy Ling Po really stands out in her performance here -as she does in Finger Of Doom- as does Tsung Hua, Lo Lieh, Chin Han, and Wang Ping. Chu Yuan's first toughting of the treacherous deceptions of those who would sell their closest loved ones for avarice and his debut of convoluting a storyline or plot as an art form.)

The Golden Seal 71' (the great Tien Feng actually directs this film as well as co-stars as Senior Master here. A fantastically paced film with an explosive climatic ending by an veteren actor who has directed possibly only this old school film in his earlier career. Tsung Hua is great as Tai Tien-chou who's out to avenge his fathers death. Ku feng is the upstart villian who rises in wealth after killing Tsung Hua's father. a must have Tsung Hua/Ku Feng vehicle directed by a legendary actor -Tien Feng- in his own right.)

The Trail Of The Broken Blade 67' (this is a Jimmy Wang Yu vehicle but... for myself Chiao Chuang kinda steals the show here with his usual great acting abilities. Chiao Chuang falls for Chin Ping after saving her and her father from bandits, yet as they get to know one another better he avows his deep feelings for her, upon this candid confession Chin Ping informs him she's already promised herself to Jimmy Wang Yu even though he's an outlaw. Chiao Chuang instead of being put off, promises to help and possibly retrieve him for her. Chiao Chuang handles his role with profound skill here, in fact really throughout the entire film, actually in any film he graces. he's really good with getting pissed off at someone as well which is highly amusing. a truly great actor. otherwise, the title of this film actually lends you it's intended premise.)

Jade Tiger 77' ( great Chu Yuan directed film. star studded and an easily followable Chu Yuan film. Chu Yuan was an artist. there is one scene inparticular which kinda blew me away as far as imagery goes. 55:00 into the film there is this scene where Shih Szu asks Ti Lung if he believes in 'destiny'. as this scene begins you see Shih Szu's face and an out of focus flower to the right of her face. while she explains here question the camera zooms into her facial features, this results in the flower becoming such a distorted image that it becomes more of an accent of red to the right (her right) of Shih Szu's face. almost like the sun is setting behind her. great transformative zoom, artistic as hell.
art director: Chen Ching-shen did a wonderful job on his part.
great fiim.)

The Silver Fox 68' (great Chang Yi film. Lily Ho does a superb job as well, though she's really not very convincing, as a guy. regardless, the choreographing is very well done in this film. another Fan Mei Sheng character role. he's great here and has a very cool role in the story. extremely cool film. extremely cool music as well.)

The Water Margin 70' (an all star extravaganza including two very popular japanese leads. Great traditional chinese story based on the novel All Men Are Brothers. This film boasts almost every major lead and character actor in the shaws retinue. Fan Mei Sheng is excellent here as Black Whirlwind and his chemistry with David Chiang is classic to say the least. a must own Shaws film.)

The Master Of Kung Fu 73' (this Ho Meng-hua directed film stars Ku Feng as Huang Fei-hung. this is Ku Feng as an upright, honorable, and very tolerant man, facing a host of unethical, immoral, and just plain murderous : relatives, rivals, and gangland brutality. great Ku Feng film. Chan Shen is great here and he takes a mean beating. Wang Hsia is the main villian here and I must say he kicks some serious ass with his attack. Just plain vicious. -I can't wait to see him in Heads For Sale- Ku Feng exhibits some extremely well done authentic kung fu and then some... with that three section staff Ku Feng is licensed to kill, instantly deadly. that weapon is just so difficult to master anyway. much less how many times you'd strike yourself while learning to use it. Ku Feng employs this weapon as though it's childs play. for more three section staff/Ku Feng madness check out, The New One-Armed Swordsman.)

All Men Are Brothers 73' (this follow up to The Water Margin in some ways out does it's predecessor. the action is paced a little more frequently and Chen Kuan Tai gives a great performance here. the delivery of the story and the unfolding of events really keep the viewers attention. a must have Shaws film.)

The Jade Faced Assassin 71' (judging this film by its packaging (pink and not very action packed looking), initially I thought I was in store for a serious let down and had actually held off purchasing it until I discovered Ku Feng held a prominent role in the film though I still entertained my doubts. however, I was in store for a big surprise upon viewing it. this film was very well paced, with excellent acting on all accounts, action with attitude, and the music perfectly accomodated the storyline. the film was more a Ku Feng vehicle at first (his intro with the whip was delivered with conviction and well choreographed for the most part), then Fan Mei Sheng took the reigns for a spell. though this was a Lily Ho, Essie Lin Chia movie and both portrayed their roles nicely. the infrequently seen Kao Yuen also delivered his role flawlessly. at times I feared the film was going to become to undercranked (with the fighting and the pace of the storyline), but this was not the case. very much like a Chu Yuan directed film after twenty minutes or so you realize you've just been treated to good deal of story and action very nicely woven together. again, at first I was worried the score was going to be a little too meddle-some with the storyline, but this was an unfounded fear. the music is also very reminiscent of early 60s Sleepy Eyes Of Death / Akira Ifukube style orchestration. it will sound dated to some but for those of us who appreciate the charm of early Shaw Bros. and early samurai film music this is highly appreciated. the film is a must have for any serious collector of this genre.

I wanted to provide everyone with some mini reviews of various Shaw Brothers movies that I came across.  I am presenting these mini reviews as they were originally posted on ezboard kung fu fandom by Senior Moderator Kwok Choi.  Thank you Kwok Choi for your contribution in keeping the Shaw Brothers spirit alive. 

Source: ez board kung fu fandom member Kwok Choi, Senior Moderator, on June 5, 2007

As a young boy growing up watching Shaw Brothers movies in cinemas I have many endearing nostalgic moments that I cherish to this day.I have enjoyed oriental cinema in many different forms but in the heydays,Shaws reigned supreme so I'll try to list and comment on my selection.Though I saw a lot of the films in cinemas and via the remastered Celestial/IVL releases,there are still a few more "classics" left on the schedule that were not released where I grew up or just missed their theatrical run eg To Kill A mastermind,Dragon Missile and Kid From Kwantung so the list will be open for changes till mid - 2008.

The Jade Raksha : I really liked and enjoyed this 60's Chang Pei Pei movie.A very good story with good character development not forgetting the brilliant swordplay ahead of it's time.I was hooked on the confrontations,the chemistry between the main leads ,the love triangle and charismatic villians.A sure winner.

Heads For Sale:This time Chiao Chiao took the reins and delivered a superb overall performance.It beats me why Chiao Chiao just sort of chickened out of playing the heroine because after this film she might have been flooded with offers.Anyway Chiao Chiao rules in this film boldly walking down busy streets selling blood dripping heads wrapped in white cloth of menacing villians going (in the English dub).... heads for sale!!! buy the heads!!!!!.....awesome.The setting of the climax was also quite daring at the time.

Vengeance Hmmm.Would you believe that this movie didn't do that well at the box office in my neck of the woods? I guess people were not just used to the " film noirish " take on a Hong Kong movie.Though entertaining,it appeared cold,bloody and vicious.Ti Lung was well loved at the time so to hack him up in the 2nd reel of the movie was like...wat da fu-ck....As a young boy,watching this movie on the big screen really intimidated me so I didn't quite appreciate it.Unfortunately it was never re-released for me to re-assess it as an adult till Celestial made it available.Ignorance is really bliss.Its a classic.Nuff said.Well done Chang Cheh and co.

The Chinese Boxer : Although Shaws promoted King Boxer better in the West than The Chinese Boxer.This trend setting Wang Yu movie was very well publicized by the local distributors in my country of origin.You had to see the billboards,poster artwork and stills/lobby cards display around town and in theatres.It was tantamount to regicide missing this film and boy did it deliver.I can go on forever with this but suffice to say that martial art fans worldwide should be grateful this movie ever existed.

King Eagle: Ok the title baffles me a bit or maybe I wasn't paying too much attention or perhaps it has something to do with the gang conflict or maybe even Ti lung's fatal flying eagle-like sword strike.Drawn against his will in a conspiracy of rivals,a stern gallant hero never troubles trouble but also never backs down when trouble troubles him.This movie consolidates Ti Lung's position as future box office gold.The sword fights are quite commendable for that era and Chang Cheh proves he can be skillful at directing women;excellent performance by Li Ching in a double role.Another feather in the auteur's cap.

The Lady Hermit:The pre-credit sequence prepares you for the bloody mayhem to follow in another favourite Chang Pei Pei flick.Ho Meng Hua well balances the passionate unrequited love among the main characters and the ferocious battles leaving the best for last.A fiery Shi Szu gives strong support and Lo Lieh (the luckiest man alive;come on imagine arriving on set everyday knowing you are the screen love interest of 2 top Shaw beauties) is also well cast.A must for Chang Pei Pei fans.


The New One-Armed Swordsman After Wang Yu's huge success with One-Armed Swordsman and The Return Of The One-Armed Swordsman,David Chiang bravely took up the challenge of reviving the character albeit with a different shade.Humbled and humiliated by the wily Ku Feng,David Chiang as Lei Li a famous swordsman goes into retirement as an anonymous recluse.Lei Li tries to find peace and solitude in his frugal existence and slowly finds a spark through Ching Li's warmth and mysterious hero Ti Lung's friendship.This light at the end of the tunnel starts to fade when dubious fighters at the Tiger Mansion start encroaching on his new found happiness.Forced out of retirement due to an unfortunate event,Lei Li dusted off his sword and joined the fray of multitude opponents including his arch rival Ku Feng for a duel to the death.Shaws constructed a brand new bridge for the final battle of this film and the major box office returns truly brought the One-Armed Swordsman out of retirement with an option to further the series but I wonder why Chang Cheh did not carry on with future Lei Li projects?

The Duel : One of the best collaborations of David Chiang,Ti Lung and Chang Cheh a team revered as the iron triangle.This plot of this film was later revamped about ten years later as The Flag Of Iron with the Venoms.A landmark movie at the time with the best knife fighting choreography.Ti Lung majestically displays his versatility in an overall performance as a loyal banished " prodigal son " returning to the heat of avenging the very suspicious death of his mentor " godfather ".David Chaing arrives on the scene with a hidden agenda and as a significant factor in this quagmire of wits.An unlikely bond eventually develops between the two " heroes " as they pledge to at least engage in one good deed for the benefit of society and the future of the country.This they undertake at the end with such mayhem that must be seen to be believed.

Duel For Gold : This is one of the reasons why I am a sucker for Shaw movies.At a time when Hong Kong flicks were starting to be marginalized and dubbed " chop sockeys " Shaws unleashed this crafty and intelligent movie.It is a high morality tale that address many social issues prevalent today with gold as a metaphor.The movie observes whether there can ever be honor among thieves,it also looks into the theory that money can perhaps be the root of all evil,that greed can reveal the ugly side to the " most righteous " of men,that there are various shades to women yet they are still capable of true love - or maybe not - in bizarre circumstances.Tremendous acting by all involved and the well executed fight scenes are really just a bonus.Well done Shaw Bros,Chu Yuan and everyone else involved in creating this masterpiece.

The Deadly Duo: The original poster of this film will always stick in my mind cos I remember seeing a bare chested Ti Lung with that double-headed axe by the side of David Chiang who brandishes a harpoon-like weapon and I just went boy! I have to see this.It turned out to be a macho movie with a capital M.For the first time I noticed a Chinese film with no female and child characters.Its popularity spread like wild fire.
The Deadly Duo is simply a very violent bloody depiction of a last ditch attempt by patriotic Sung heroes on a daring rescue of a prince who potentially is the only leader capable of restoring glory to a future empire of China.Thats it.Now sit back and " enjoy " carnage after carnage till the very last frame.When the Shaw logo hits the screen every time I saw this film in theatres men will chant " no woman,no pekin " " no woman,no pekin ".Sorry ladies but you can take courage in the butchering of the cool looking guys if thats your cuppa tea.

The Killer:An Intrepid Tsung Hua appears on the scene with a no-nonsense attitude determined to set things straight his own way by getting rid of the local gangsters and smugglers who command tight control of the town.He takes a face to face;man to man approach in his endeavors but inevitably falls into a well planned vicious trap that puts all his good thoughts into disarray.
It is good to occasionally see simple low budget bashers from Chu Yuan and The Killers delivers smoothly under the skillful gaze of Mr Yuan.Our straight talking hero pulls no punches with anyone who dares to cross his path and when events become hotter,get ready for the sacred knives of vengeance.Great support by Wang Ping and Chin Han.

Boxer From Shantung : This is the quintessential Chen Kuan Tai debut in a leading role.This movie has inspired and drawn parallels with films like Man Of Iron,Disciples Of Shaolin,Chinatown Kid,The Big Rascal,Big Boss Of Shanghai,The Bare Foot Kid,Hero 1997 etc.
A rags to fame and riches story by virtue of brawn and the fists setting an anti-hero type of scenario reaping the benefits of vice and the wages of sin.There can be no winners in this battle of fate for the bigger they are,the harder they fall.A sometimes emotional take on " victims " of circumstances.Chen Kwan Tai as Ma Zhong Yi had it coming in a brutal sinister end echoing his dreams as he laughs and fights his way to hell.Fascinating stuff.

King Boxer : Released as The Invincible Boxer in West Africa with a different poster artwork to the original,this movie consolidated Lo Lieh's credibility as a leading man.Almost 35 years later this film still carries itself well in retrospect stamping it's mark on the history of Hong Kong martial arts movies.Though similar to Wang Yu's The Chinese Boxer,King Boxer has many unforgettable scenes attributed to the tightly edited script.The villains add a touch of sophistication to the plot in their well executed roles.The irony of James Nam's character draws a thin line between the anti-hero,a jealous arrogant hot head and a lost soul.Overall Cheng Chang Ho made a noteworthy contribution to the evolution of Kung Fu films.

The 14 Amazons:Hehehe now we get to my favourite Shaw movie.Directed by Cheng Kang this takes the crown for me simply because without any anticipation,and in a very very dark underground theatre called Hollywood cinema,I was awestruck as a young boy and literally transfixed by everything that unfolded on screen.Also as I was very fond of the Stateside epics and Italian peplums that were very popular at the time,The 14 Amazons seemed to be Hong Kong's answer to the competition.I only had the opportunity to see the movie once when released and it left a remarkable imprint on my mind because I could never stop thinking about the film for a while as I had never seen anything like it before.The human bridge scene was quite vivid and it is a shame the scene was dissolved before it finished in the cut Celestial/IVL version losing a bit of it's impact.
The historical content was relevant and the adaptation incredible as the Yang matriarch,mobilized the widows,grandson and the rest of the survivors of the Yang army to embark on a " futile suicide mission " in the hope of restoring past glory,vindicating the Yang Clan,avenging their spouses and halting the advance of the marauding invading Mongols.All the female protagonists proved to be forces to be reckoned as Tartar nemesis.Ivy Ling Po rules highlighting the spirit of the female resilience.This is the movie that made me join Kung Fu Fandom by chance when searching for infomation about it.
Well once upon a time,roughly about 30+ years ago sometime in 1972 there was never a Hong Kong movie out there like The 14 Amazons.

Blood Brothers : Another Shaw movie with allegedly historical content that was a scandal at the time.The iron triangle plus Ching Li and Chen Kuan Tai tackle this subject matter superbly.Told in flashback by a condemned David Chiang,it started as a simple story about two happy go lucky conmen who met their match in a mysterious majestic skilled fighter they unsuccessfully tried to rob.The fighter Ti Lung then became " blood brothers " with conmen David Chiang and Chen Kuan Tai and they later formed a reputable band of robbers.Ti Lung sort of headed the gang but was a man of greater ambition destined for higher aims in life.He eventually decided to abandon this path and pursue bigger goals which he achieved with flying colours as one of the generals of the Ching? army.To further advance his career Ti Lung decided to assimilate his blood brothers and former fearless gang members into the army which proved to be a well made decision.However there was one catch;a woman.
This is acme Chang Cheh.This film proved the director could tell another sensitive meaningful tale with sublimity and passion that slightly echoes the emotions conveyed in the previously directed The Assasin starring Wang Yu.The acting by the main characters is spot on.If the fighting choreography at the time could be forgiven Blood Brothers would have rightly deserved a theatrical re-release to promote the Celestial dvd restoration.

Shaolin Martial Arts:Nostalgia! nostalgia!! nostalgia!!! for me because I was really hard up at the time it came out.A friend of mine asked me to walk him to the cinema not knowing he had secretly purchased another ticket.As I was about to bid farewell,he told me to stay and watch him enter the theatre and just as his ticket was about to be torn,he produced another one and beckoned me to join him.Thats how I got my first taste of Shaolin Martial Arts.
Before this film kung fu movies were structured differently so what we were seeing on screen was a bit unusual and captivating at the same time.I had never experienced such pacing and storytelling especially the use of well chosen dramatic scores with accurate timing relative to the narrative of a kung fu film so the general cinematic language of the movie was quite unique for me.
The screening was the first of the 2 evening shows and the packed audience was completely taken aback,at the edge of their seats and anxious all the way through not knowing what to expect because there was still uncertainty whether the "last heroes" will triumph till Chi Kuan Chun did " that thing " to Wan Lung Wei at the finale.When Fu Sheng confronted Liang Chia Ren and shortly proved he was a formidable match the audiences' confidence grew and man!!!! you should have been there to witness the cheering,shouting,whistling,booing,you name it.You couldn't hear anything till the glorified heroes walked down the dusty road with their squeezes in tow.The standing ovation when the lights came up was something else.You'll see grown men hugging and shaking each other's hands in joy.Shaolin Martial Arts became the talk of the town exceeding expectations due to it's low key release.A real sleeper surprise package that became a stupendous hit.This ladies and gentlemen was my first experience of Shaolin Martial Arts.How can I forget such a film eh?

Killer Clans I don't remember a lot about the plot but I remember enough to know that it is a Gu Lung adaptation directed by Chu Yuan based on clan rivalry by a multi-starcast including Ku Feng,Tsung Hua,Yueh Hua,Ching Li,Wang Chun etc etc.There is a lot of suspense and deceit in this film but the story is not too convoluted once the main characters get well established into the plot.Production design is excellent and the fight scenes are well handled.Performances by the top stars especially Ku Feng simply known as " Uncle " a revered enigma and Yueh Hua who tries to upstage Uncle are quite intriguing.Tsung Hua is also comfortable in his role as the man in black on a secret mission and Ching Li lends fine support as the love interest.
The main reason I enjoyed this movie was that Hong Kong films were usually termed as brainless.It was just mind blowing for such a well executed intelligent piece of cinema to emerge out of the ex British Colony.I derived a lot of respect for Hong Kong cinema from this experience which I honestly believe is one of Chu Yuan's finest moments.

Seven Man Army Wow! this is it man! this is my movie man! I gotta tell ya nothing beats watching this film in theatres back in the golden age of Shaw Brother movies.It was not an experience it was an event.In those days only one other Asian war epic came close and that was the other Taiwan helmed flick The Longest Bridge.
Anyway it is based on the historical event of one of the various Sino-Japanese wars.It is a tribute to the fate of the last seven men in a Kuomintang battallion who had to make a brave attempt to secure a fort on a crucial pass stopping the advancing Japanese and their Mongol mercenaries by any means necessary against all heavenly and human odds from gaining grounds that would have been detrimental to the Chinese war effort before reinforcement arrives.
Depicted in the spirit of the last stand at Camerone when about 62 battered French Foreign Legionnaires took on the might of the 2000 strong Mexican army in 1863,Seven Man Army is a mind numbing feat featuring David Chiang,Ti Lung,Chen Kuan Tai,Fu Sheng,Li Yi Min and above all Chi Kuan Chun who rocked who really rocked.Chang Cheh unleashed.Wow!

Shaolin Temple
A well made film about the last days of Shaolin Temple.Chang Cheh uses a different structure and pace to his previous Shaolin cycle films.He also prepares The Venoms for future glory.Shaolin Temple is heavily based on the techniques and principles of Shaolin and Shaolin kung fu with a menacing sub-plot and an ambiguous back story.The martial arts of the film is a treat for the eyes with some very unusual and philosophical training sequences.The multi-star cast of who is who in the Chang Cheh camp,both in front and behind the camera, more than deliver.The final attack on the temple and the resistance is something else.A movie that should be among the collection of every martial art fan.

Executioners From Shaolin
A follow up to the destruction of Shaolin Temple.One of the Shaolin revolutionaries Hung Hsi Kuan escapes but encounters an ambush in a remarkable opening sequence.He manages to survive,flee,go into hiding and keep a low profile as an entertainer.During this period Hung met LiLy Li (in a very good role) married her and later had a son.However Hung Hsi Kuan's main goal was to get rid of the fearsome Pai Mei a Manchu collaborator and perhaps the main reason for the demise of Shaolin Temple.To defeat the invincible Pai Mei, Hung Hsi Kwan developed Hung Gar / Hung boxing over the years but the crafty Pai Mei had an ace up his sleeve.Hung Hsi Kwan made 2 attempts to eliminate Pai Mei - superbly played by Lo Lieh - but failed with dire consequences.Lily Li then decided to train their son Wen Ding a combination technique of the Hung Style and the Crane Fist which could possibly be the key to breaking Pai Mei's guard.
A sure winning ball for director Liu Chia Liang.

The Sentimental Swordsman
As the title suggests Ti Lung plays a noble hero who by coincidence luckily crosses paths with a cocky skillful orphan wanderer Derek Yee.With trusted Fan Mei Shan in tow the sentimental swordsman decides to tackle the issue about a rumour of the reappearance of the notorious Plum Blossom Bandit.Fair enough but there is more to it than that because the very beautiful and manipulative Ching Li in a brilliant performance set the whole thing up to avenge the death of her father.Though the Plum Blossom Bandit does exist and is closer than you think he lies incognito and Ti Lung sentimental to a fault,finds himself embroiled in a situation cleverly set up by Ching Li where all fingers of accusations are pointing towards him.To prove his innocence,Ti Lung agrees to be taken as a convict to Shaolin Temple were justice could prevail or a vital clue could be found to the true identity of the Plum Blossom Bandit.From here onwards,Chu Yuan does what he does best.A compelling film which only Shaw brothers could do justice to at the time.One memorable dialogue by the sentimental swordsman goes something like this.......
have you seen the spider's web?
we are like spiders
we all want to make our own webs so we can live in them forever
everything that we have done because of money,love,friendship and ourselves have become our own web that ties us up.
then we are trapped in them
no matter what we do we can't get out
some people call this fate.

Chinatown Kid (International Version )
A social and morality tale about a naive mainland Chinese immigrant who swam to Hong Kong to seek greener pastures.Without any trade,skills or qualifications life became tough for the illegal immigrant Fu Sheng and his grandad.Though naive Fu Sheng is fearless,considerate,kind hearted,cultural and a damn good fighter.As man is not in control of his destiny Fu Sheng found himself involved with the wrong type of people who eventually made him stowaway to the United States where he met and worked with Sun Chien a student in a Chinatown restaurant.Again fate intervened and Fu Sheng found himself rubbing shoulders with undesirables.As his bravado always gets the best of him,The Chinatown Kid ruffles the feathers of one of the local rival gangsters.Coerced by the other rival gang into taking sides Fu Sheng gets the whiff of " fame " and fortune for the first time.He soon establishes himself as a tough local mobster but there was a twist when events due to his contribution to society's ills hit closer to home.In a bid to clean up his act the once Chinatown Kid incurred the wrath of his peers leading to a bloody showdown.Chang Cheh succeeds again in one of Fu Sheng's best films.Noticeable impact on John Woo.The Venoms are also casted in preparation to take the world by storm.A movie not to be missed;the international version that is;not the Celestial/IVL release.

The 36th Chamber Of Shaolin
Surprisingly this was another low key release.The original poster was just so so and Liu Chia Hui had not quite cut the mustard yet but the movie grew on the audience and obtained classic status almost overnight.Based on the life of the famous Shaolin Monk San Te,director Liu Chia Liang and his protege got a unique opportunity to extend martial art movies to the next frontier. Although Jackie Chan's Shaolin Wooden Men and Joseph Kuo's The Eighteen Bronze Men had already been out,this film brought a " more authentic " view on the rigours of achieving martial art prowess at Shaolin.The strengths of the film are the high quality training sequences,the pace,the structure and the rivalry between a senior monk played by Lee Hoi San and the novice San Te leading to the invention of the 3 sectioned staff and its subsequent superiority over the butterfly swords.Cinematic history.

The Avenging Eagle
A very unusual plot or storyline for a martial arts movie which I can swear has touches of an old western I've seen but can't recall the title.It also seems like the new wave movie 13 Cold Blooded Eagles was inspired by Avenging Eagle.The story and performances of Ti Lung, Fu Sheng,Ku Feng etc is one of the film's strongest points.The martial arts which is excellent in my opinion is a wonderful bonus.Character development is good because you really care about the fate of our protagonists.Director Sun Chung succeeded greatly in the sub plot,back story and twist at the end of the film adding a melancholic touch to the whole venture and highlighting a complexity to Fu Sheng's character.This film more than deserves it's already achieved cult status.

Cripple Avengers
As ridiculous as the concept of this movie is,it works for me purely on merits of entertainment value.Once you suspend your disbelief,it is very easy to become totally engrossed in what unfolds on screen.A bittersweet tale of dictatorial bullying,arrogance,intolerance by the martial arts elite versus the bravery and resilience of the innocent common man.Chen Kwan Tai excels as the conceited menacing antagonist.The Venoms give a performance of a lifetime given the challenges of their roles coordinating the flawless fighting cohesion of handicapped characters.Pure entertainment,pure bliss.One memorable scene that literally almost brought the house down was the build up and eventual outcome of Iron Feet Sun Chien vs the over confident Iron Skin strongman.Damn!!!! you should have been there to see the audience reaction to this.

Heroes Of The East
Chinese kung fu vs Japanese martial arts told from the point of view of the Chinese without aiming to discredit or stereotype the Japanese is a rare occasion in Hong Kong cinema.The result attained a lot of respect for the " Lau Brothers " in Japan as it deals with cultural differences through intermarriage.A perfect setup to analyze the various aspects of different martial art techniques with it's benefits and significant bearings on its practitioners.After the success of The 36th Chamber Of Shaolin,Heroes Of The East consolidated Liu Chia Hui's position as a bankable star and superb kung fu fighter.Director Liu Chia Liang is on top form again as he beautifully engages the world in the positive principles and philosophies of Kung Fu as an art for the betterment of the human spirit.

Shaolin Rescuers
Could be counted as one of Chang Cheh's Shaolin cycle of films.Jason Pai Piao plays Hung Hsi Kuan on the run after the destruction of Shaolin Temple who somehow manages to seek refuge in a mill run by a sympathizer and his friends.The mill owner and his friends are the Venoms who decide to continue helping Hung Hsi Kuan in his quest;but the trouble is that the Manchus are hot on the trail and on the alert for the Shaolin dissident.This is the movie that cemented my confidence in the Venoms as serious contenders on the scene of the martial art movie craze.There are some slight comedic touches in the banter and playfulness of the venoms of which I think Sun Chien and Lo Mang stole the show.Lu Feng deserved the award he won for his performance in taking all the rest of the venoms at once in all fighting techniques and weaponry in the awesome climax of this film though I also believe Wang Li should have been commended somehow for taking on Kuo Chue,Lu Feng and Chiang Sheng in the magnificent end fight of The Daredevils.

Monkey Kung Fu
Snake In The Eagle's Shadow had now been released and everyone was trying to cash in on the stupendous success of that low budget wonder even the mighty Shaw Brothers.One director John Lo Mar decided to carry the flag for Shaws in this regard with Monkey Kung Fu and Five Superfighters albeit with slight alterations.The straight up can't fight lackey meets bad teacher,meet good hobo who has brilliant kung fu skills,meets tough badass mofo main villian,in preparation for an action-fest finale and more than generous box office returns,has been altered instead for a medal split in two halves which is actually a map for a coveted kung fu manual wanted by top fighters which has unwittingly drawn our heroes in the fray.From the start of this film to the end you'll enjoy one fabulous fight after the other with a dash of slapstick comedy in between.One of the best fights for me was main lead and action choreographer Ching Sui Tung vs the prostitute in the brothel.The other main lead Hou Chao Sheng has some wicked fight scenes giving a lot of credence to the monkey fist.Badass Kuan Feng arrives on the scene and adds real class to the overdose of action.Pure delight.

The Daredevils
The actors known as the Venoms exist in modern times so I don't mind seeing them in movies using mobile phones,ipods and laptops.I believe they have the right to make movies of their liking especially those that showcase their talents.I also hate " the 20 yrs ago you killed my etc etc " revenge kung fu movie yet The Daredevils is a revenge story with a difference.I do not appreciate kung fu films where people fight at every given opportunity so once the plot of The Daredevils is fully established,it is time to put your feet up and enjoy a different take on a revenge story set in modern times with guns and one of the best choreography by the incredible Venoms.I can never do justice to describing the experience of that end fight of about 16 bloody good minutes of sheer Taiwan Opera ingenuity in a packed theatre and boy! was Wang Li a formidable nemesis or what? The Daredevils is one of the few Shaw movies to get multiple releases in my country of origin.

Five Superfighters
The low budget for maximum profit approach that was the trend at this time is employed again by the king of no frills kick ass SB movies with attitude helmer John Lo Mar.A huge hit when released as this type of kung fu film was really rulling the box office thanks to Sn..................anyway get ready for one badass kung fu wandering fighter who embarks on a personal crusade as the corrector of bad kung fu;can you believe that? This super cool unbeatable mutha Kuan Feng wreaks havoc in his trail.After disgracing teacher Hou Chan Sheng of Monkey Kung Fu fame,his 3 students decide to abandon him to improve their kung fu skills and return in 6 months time to get revenge.After many trials and tribulations they indeed return with a nice present of skills for their teacher (what did you expect?) who himself was keeping one step ahead of the game.A cheeky final confrontation with Mr corrector of bad kung fu almost eliminated his tomentors till the teacher entered the duel.What else? just marvel at the splendid martial arts and forget about all other technicalities.


The Tigress Of Shaolin
I don't remember much about the plot of this movie as well because it was last shown in the early 80s but I remember enough to say it was a well made kung fu film that lived up to the positive aspects of the genre.The main hero is played by Liu Chia Liang's nephew Lau Kar Yung who was a fantastic martial artist in his own rights.Wei Ying Hung is also on top form.I think the old lady who teaches Lau Kar Yung towards the end of this film is actually the star's real mother who should be Liu Chia Liang's older sister.A big hit with smashing kung fu and a little dose of slapstick comedy.Can't wait to get my hands on the Celestial/IVL release.Another must have.

The Magnificent Ruffians
Touted as the quintessential Venoms movie by many fans, this could be regarded as the Venoms ultimate moment.The plot revolves mainly around the fearless Lo Mang whose character is quite likable in this film and the rich spoilt brat Lu Feng who would be more than happy to see Lo Mang encounter a premature meeting with his maker.Kuo Chue and Chiang Sheng become unwitting pawns in this scheme when an innocuous spar went horribly wrong.Now fugitives,the 2 Venoms go with the flow,play along with Lu Feng's continuing scheme in their quest for justice.Good plot good acting as well though Lo Mang appeared a tad over the top but this could be forgiven regarding the nature of his character.However Lu Feng rules in this one being very dubious and charismatic at the same time.The others do what they do best in this kung fu masterpiece.

The Kid With The Golden Arms
This is the only Shaw Brothers movie I know that gets an applause from the audience on most screenings when the SB logo hits the screen.Like 5 Venoms it is a bit gothic and macabre in places with the Venoms pitted against each other.Touches of Duel for Gold are apparent as the plot revolves around an escort company headed by Sun Chien cast against type in a role he really justified.Lo Mang is of course the main draw as the title suggests whose presence and performance lights up the screen.Kuo Chue lends fine support and Wei Pai is also central to the plot while Chiang Sheng is under-used as one of the double axe fighters.The twist,the martial arts,the performances and everything else about this film gave the competition at the time a well deserved run for it's money.

Mad Monkey Kung Fu
I really enjoyed this movie (cruelty to animals aside) though it also seemed to cash in on the trend at the time.However it was made with a heart,emotion and seriousness.Lo Lieh,Hui Ying Hung and actor/director Liu Chia Liang show finesse in their roles and the fantastic martial arts compliments the movie further.Most people find Hsiao Hou annoying but this is the nature of his character in the film.The training sequences are very entertaining with top notch choreography.The end fight is a classic and the final freeze frame will definitely put a smile on your face.

Fist Of The White Lotus
Another favourite of many fans which is a reworking of the well received Executioners from Shaolin.From the opening credits onwards you know you are in for a treat.A smiple revenge story aided by great training sequences and jaw dropping fights.Wonderful wonderful performances by Lo Lieh and Liu Chia Hui that is well supported by Hui Ying Hung.The structure of the film,pacing of the plot,and choreography by Liu Chia Liang is terrific.Time flies with this one and if you you have had enough by the end,then you are definitely not watching Fist Of The White Lotus trust me.

Two Champions Of Shaolin
A Shaolin vs Wudang conflict without much use of the sword.Though this movie is not a classic it has its place in the heart of most kung fu fans.Not a massive hit upon release but well appreciated all the same because the movie has some memorable scenes.It is a Lo Mang and Chiang Sheng vehicle all the way.Chin Siu Hou does well in this supported by Candy Wen.Sun Chien is sort of a special appearance.Lu Feng is introduced a bit later into the film and he rocks the boat big time.Kuo Chue is absent but don't let that put you off.Wang Li and Yu Tai Ping add strength to the plot which is quite decent.Not the Venoms finest moment yet very entertaining with a good theme reminiscent of Showdown At The Cotton Mill.Overall a fine effort.

The Master
A big big hit also known as 3 Evil Masters.Yuen Tak was unknown at the time and the original poster did not whet appetites either but the movie had 3 things in it's favour 1) the SB logo 2) Chen Kuan Tai 3) Wang Lung Wei.This movie also opened quietly but quickly made a big impact.It has one of the best opening credit sequences ever commited to celluloid.The slapstick comedy is well balanced not to ruin the picture.Director Lu Chun Ku was well into the subject matter making Mona Fong a very happy woman.A superb action flick from Shaw Brothers.Not to be missed.

Rebel Intruders
Shaw Brother movies were different because they tried to make most of their kung fu flicks without focusing or dwelling too much on current basic stereotype trends synonymous with Hong Kong movies of the era.This film is based on internal strife and conflict in China causing an influx of refugees to safe areas ruled be local rival clans.It then becomes survival of the fittest as the Venoms find themselves in a hellish quagmire of outwitting the rival clans rife with mistrust and deceit except for one noble leader.Rebel Intruders projected a golden opportunity for the Venoms to add one more feather to their overfilled cap.This movie did very well in cinemas released as The Guerrillas.

Martial Club
The superfluous lion dance at the begining,the buffoonery of Mai Te Lo and the annoying slapstick in places aside,Martial Club more than delivers on the martial arts front.Liu Chia Hui as a young Wong Fei Hung,Hui Ying Hung and Wang Lung Wei prove at this point that they are true veterans of the silverscreen under the firm tuition of the one and only Liu Chia Liang.There are some good fight scenes,moral codes and martial arts ethics involved in the plot as rival schools compete against each other but the highlight of the film is the final confrontation between Liu Chia Hui and Wang Lung Wei..............lord!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! in one of the most astonishing contests ever captured on film.Wang Lung Wei deserves a huge pat on his back for his contribution to this film in what could easily be the greatest role of his career at Shaw Brothers.Click here for more inspiration by the Wong Fei Hung/Lau Brothers legacy.
www.laufamilyhunggar.com/

The Flying Guillotine
As mature as they come this is really how I appreciate Hong Kong cinema.Ho Meng Hua made an eerie sinister and unique movie that was way ahead of it's time.I can't imagine living in those times without a shiver running through my spine.The legend that the flying guillotine actually existed makes the concept of the film even more sombre.This film succeeds in all aspects without stating the obvious.Another landmark movie from Shaw Brothers with superb performances by Ku Feng,Chen Kuan Tai,Frankie Wei,Wong Yue and the beautiful Liu Wu Chi as Chen Kuan Tai's wife.

Masked Avengers
You can poke a thousand holes in the plot and structure of this film if you wish and have a field day doing so but Chang Cheh at this point had abandoned the classic golden era of films classed as " The Iron Triangle Movies " and opted instead for the sheer grace and talent of the Venoms.What works for me in the film is the tightly woven script of mystery,suspense,the tarvern Hitchcockian feel with a sprinkle of the macabre and baroque.Kuo Chue,Chiang Sheng,Lu Feng,Chu Ker,Wang Li not forgetting Chin Siu Hou all carry their roles splendidly.As for the martial arts,well thats something else;simply mind-blowing;out of this world.

Five Element Ninja
I always used to wonder why Shaw Brothers did not jump on the bandwagon of Ninja movies at the height of it's craze.Well after being bombarded by various types of Ninja films from different companies it was more than pleasing to see maestro Chang Cheh raise the flag for the Shaw banner.Although the original Venoms had almost disbanded at this time this movie pulverised everything in its path.Released as Chinese Super Ninja in our area the film excelled and exceeded everyone's expectation and the box office receipts was more than enough proof that the Shaw game was far from over (if only they could have been bothered to do global research).A clever analysis of the deadly 5 elements;the DNA of Ninjuitsu,it's offshoots and parallels with Chinese Martial Arts.Chang Cheh managed to put together a team that did everyone proud.Amazing stuff.

Human Lanterns
I can't elaborate much on the greatness of this movie because it has already been dissected by the one and only Linn Hayes.Click here for that info.
tombofdvd.com/humanlanterns.htm
All I would like to add is that I honestly believe Human Lanterns should be re-released in mainstream cinemas and multiplexes.With the West now opening up to these type of films I am certain Human Lanterns will be a sure winner if shown either digitally or on 35mm prints.Celestial what are you waiting for.This treasure more than deserves another lease of life.


Shaolin Prince..........to be continued
Judgement Of An Assasin
Bastard Swordsman
Shaolin Intruders
8 Diagram Pole Fighters
New Tales Of The Flying Fox
Long Road To Gallantry.



Honourable Mention

Come Drink With Me
Golden Swallow
The Assasin
Bells Of Death
The Return Of The One-Armed Swordsman
Raw Courage
Have Sword Will Travel
The Heroic Ones
The Crimson Charm
Man Of Iron
The Lizard
The Delinquent
Heroes Of Sung
Heroes Two
The Condemned
Brotherhood
New Shaolin Boxers
Gang Master
Jade Tiger
Death Duel
Clan Of Amazons
Shaolin Mantis
Heaven Sword And Dragon Sabre
The Swordsman And The Enchantress
Invincible Shaolin
Life Gamble
The Flag Of Iron
A Deadly Secret
Bat Without Wings
My Young Auntie
Lion VS Lion
Black Lizard
My Rebellious Son
The Rescue
The Casino
Killers Five
Dragon Swamp
Holy Flame Of The Martial World
The Return Of The Sentimental Swordsman
Little Dragon Maiden
Big Bad Sis
The Girly Bar
The Illegal Immigrant................to be continued