My Shaw Brothers Cinematic Journey
A list of all the Shaw Brothers films I've watched, from newbie to aficionado.
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- DirectorJimmy Wang YuStarsJimmy Wang YuLieh LoPing WangA martial artist seeks revenge after his master and his entire Kwoon are wiped out by Japanese Karate masters who're in cahoots with a vile martial artist seeking to control the area by opening casinos and trapping people in debt.As good as any a place to start. Jimmy Wang Yu stars in this hard-hitting kung fu classic influenced by Japanese cinema. Still holds up to this day despite countless imitations.
- DirectorCheh ChangStarsKuan Tai ChenFeng LuPhillip Chung-Fung KwokThree men who have been physically disabled by an evil warlord and his physically-disabled son become friends and learn kung fu so that they can seek revenge with help from an elderly martial-arts teacher and his mentally-disabled pupil.An eye-popping viewing experience that introduced me to Chang Cheh and the Venoms. Packed with gruesome action and imaginative fights, this was an early favourite of mine and remains classic viewing.
- DirectorChia-Liang LiuStarsKuan Tai ChenLieh LoYue WongHong Hsi-Kuan devotes years to mastering Tiger style Kung Fu in order to defeat the evil priest Pai Mei. His wife, who is an expert in Crane style Kung Fu, has a feeling training in only one style won't be enough.A solid martial arts experience from Liu Chia-Liang, complete with Lo Lieh's iconic white-haired bad guy. The slow mid part lets it down a bit.
- DirectorCheh ChangStarsDavid ChiangLung TiSheng FuFive students escape from the destruction of their beloved Shaolin Temple...now each must take revenge and train in their own seperate fighting styles...they will become The Five Shaolin Masters!!A simple story, brought to life well by Chang Cheh's stylish direction and one of the very best of his 'Shaolin cycle' of films.
- DirectorCheh ChangStarsSheng FuKuan-Chun ChiSzu ShihFour friends learn kung fu to avenge the death of their friend against the manchus.The presence of ninja star Richard Harrison was my 'in' road to this tale, another personal favourite thanks to the stylish action scenes and mayhem.
- DirectorCheh ChangHsueh-Li PaoStarsKuan Tai ChenLi ChingDavid ChiangLeaving the poverty of his life in Shantung to seek fortune in Shanghai, The Boxer is instead drawn into a world of corruption, gang warfare and evil... Where his only protection is his famed fighting technique.I first saw this film on a VHS tape and it left an impression. Seeing it in the digital age in all of its widescreen gory glory, it's a stand-out gangster classic.
- DirectorCheh ChangStarsDavid ChiangLung TiPing WangChina 1925, a man returns to track down a kill the men who murdered his brother.The film that put David Chiang on the map for me. Similar to Boxer from Shantung, and just as impactful.
- DirectorRoy Ward BakerCheh ChangStarsPeter CushingDavid ChiangJulie EgeIn China, Professor Van Helsing helps eight kung fu-trained siblings reclaim their ancestral mountain village, now the domain of seven powerful vampires and their army of undead slaves.When I found out that Hammer and Shaw worked together on a kung fu horror classic, I was absolutely delighted, and I still am when watching this movie.
- DirectorChia-Liang LiuStarsChia-Hui LiuSheng FuLily LiMongols with the help of an insider, ambush the influential Yang Family, defenders of the dynasty. The Mongols must hunt down all Yang survivors so their insidious plot to overthrow the dynasty will not be uncovered.Baldie Gordon Liu knocking out teeth aplenty makes this an irresistable watch. Only later did I learn of Fu Sheng's tragic death during the production.
- DirectorMeng-Hua HoStarsLung TiLieh LoNi TienAn evil magician makes a living by casting deadly spells on people's objects of desire. He gets overly ambitious, and start to go out of control.I only found out that Shaw did horror after watching this gruesome odyssey. Jaw-dropping stuff in places.
- DirectorMeng-Hua HoStarsLung TiNi TienLieh LoAn evil magician and his zombie minions are up against a trio of doctors who are on a mission to find the cause of an outbreak of unknown diseases caused by his spells.A worthy follow-up to the first film, and even more grisly and disturbing if anything.
- DirectorMeng-Hua HoStarsDanny LeePing ChenLily LiA cripple takes revenge on criminals by using a magic spell that transforms him into an oily monster/superhero.A weird combination of superhero film, revenge flick, and kung fu outing that somehow works despite (or maybe because of) the outlandish premise.
- DirectorChih-Hung KueiStarsPhillip KoShao-Yen LinKar-Man WaiWhile in Thailand to avenge his brother who was crippled in a fight with a corrupt Thai boxer, a man gets caught up in a web of fate, Buddhism and black magic.Essentially a special effects showcase, this surreal horror film is beyond belief and still one of the most bizarre and shocking productions ever filmed.
- DirectorChia-Liang LiuStarsChia-Hui LiuYuka MizunoYasuaki KurataA Chinese man (Liu) marries a Japanese woman through an arranged marriage and manages to insult all of her Japanese martial arts family by issuing a challenge to her that is misinterpreted by the others. He must then prove how good Chinese Kung Fu really is through a series of duels with the seven Japanese martial artists who come to meet the challenge.The first film I watched that was really about the technique and style of the martial arts. Oddly bloodless, only recently did I discover that this was a Shaw production. It does feel a little shallow despite good action, and both director and star would go on to do better.
- DirectorMichael CarrerasMonte HellmanStarsStuart WhitmanLung TiLily LiShatter, an international hitman, is hiding out in Hong Kong after he has completed a contract out on an African leader. Shatter soon finds out that everyone wants him dead, including the crime syndicate, the cops and the brother of the African leader he killed. Shatter teams up with a kung fu expert to try to get the money that is owed to him. Various double crosses and fight scenes ensue.Hammer's follow-up to Legend of the 7 Golden Vampires; not quite as much fun, but still a worthwhile thriller. I had no idea who Ti Lung was the first time I watched it.
- DirectorCheh ChangStarsTien-Chi ChengTien-Hsiang LungMeng LoA Chinese martial arts school is infiltrated and destroyed by ninjas. Tian Hao survives the massacre and seeks to uncover the trickery of ninjutsu in order to beat the Five Element Ninjas and avenge his family.Watching this on a fuzzy dupe did little to dilute what is essentially an insane viewing experience. Later I got hold of a bootleg DVD which was a step up, but thanks to 88 Asia viewers can now experience this in all of its widescreen, original language, uncut glory on Blu-ray.
- DirectorChia-Liang LiuStarsHou HsiaoChia-Hui LiuLily LiGordon Liu Chia-hui reprises his famous Monk San Te role as he tries to support and protect Shaolin her Fang Shih-yu who purposely attacks corrupt Ching officials. Fights by legendary action director Liu Chia-liang are to die for.I watched this on TV before experiencing the two previous films and didn't like it too much. Watching it again recently and it's perfectly serviceable, a fine cast adding much to the proceedings.
- DirectorCheh ChangStarsMeng LoSheng ChiangLi WangThe Wu Tang chief sends out his men, each of whom is given a symbol so they can recognize each other. The largest is given to Lee, whom the others are to obey.The first time I watched this I still didn't know much about the Venoms and thought it was missing something. Watching it again recently and it's a fine, entertaining vehicle for the team.
- DirectorYuen ChorStarsFei AiShen ChanPing ChenTwo clans compete for dominance over the martial arts world in this classic of violent swordplay and political intrigue. A complex tale of deception and double crosses. Killer Clans leaves viewers guessing every step of the way. Masterful fight choreography from Yuen Cheung Yan (Yuen Clan member and brother of Yuen Woo Ping) and Tong Gaai fills the screen with bloody sword fighting and imaginative weaponry, delivering both great drama and fantastic martial arts.The first Shaw martial arts film I watched that prioritised story over action. One of Chor Yuen's finest 'martial world' odysseys.
- DirectorCheh ChangStarsSheng ChiangChien SunPhillip Chung-Fung KwokThe sixth and final pupil of a dying martial arts teacher is instructed to find the teacher's five former pupils and defeat any evil ones that are among them.I saw this on DVD and it was long overdue; now I knew who the Venoms were and could appreciate the interplay between them.
- DirectorChia-Liang LiuStarsYue WongChen-Chi LinLung TiA con artist uses Kung Fu to swindle villagers for money by pretending to be possessed by angry gods. However, when the villagers are later threatened by bandits he must use the same skills for good.I didn't know who Wong Yue was at this stage and was expecting the film to be in the style of Encounters of the Spooky Kind. Thus I didn't enjoy it too much, although looking back it's not too bad.
- DirectorChia-Liang LiuStarsChia-Hui LiuLieh LoYue WongA man studies kung fu at the Shaolin Temple to fight back against the oppressive Manchu government.The most popular of all the Shaolin Temple movies, this one turned Yul Brynner lookalike Gordon Liu into a global superstar and features highly memorable training sequences amid a leisurely, revenge-fuelled narrative.
- DirectorKing HuStarsPei-Pei ChengHua YuehChih-Ching YangBandits kidnap a governor's son and demand their imprisoned leader to be set free in exchange. The governor's daughter, a skilled martial artist, is sent to rescue him, but eventually finds herself overmatched and in need of assistance.Another film I watched thanks to FilmFour. A bit slow, a bit mannered, but the seeds of greatness are sown here.
- DirectorLung-Wei WangStarsKa-Yan LeungNorman ChuShu-Yuan HsuAfter receiving a life imprisonment sentence for a NY Chinatown massacre, Jia Shi Lan obtains a pardon through the Mafia's influence.A modern-day film with a big reputation. This doesn't disappoint, becoming an instant favourite thanks to the incredible levels of violence and the burning revenge story. What a way for the studio to bow out!
- DirectorChi LoStarsKara WaiKar-Yung LauJui-yi LiuWhen young Tieh Chiao San is sent by his dying father to live with a former kung fu colleague in the town, he accidentally gets into trouble when messing with a gang running a snake-oil scam and then getting into a fight with an old drunkard. When Tieh reaches his destination he finds that the snake-oil gang is run by none other than his father's friend. He joins the gang but cannot bring himself to do the bad deeds demanded of him; this continues to the point where he is beaten and left for dead. Luckily he is rescued by the pretty Tsai Chiao and hidden out with her drunk uncle and leprosy suffering aunt as well as a Shaolin temple. Tieh uses his time to learn some new kung fu styles, which is just as well as it is not long till the gang come after him looking to finish the job.Amazon Prime have done a great job of bringing widescreen, high definition Shaw Brothers films to subscribers. I loved this film purely for the quality and it was the beginning of an intense viewing period for me.
- DirectorCheh ChangStarsFeng LuLi WangTien-Hsiang LungA team of skilled fighters navigate a house rigged with an array of ingenious and deadly traps.My first Venoms films where I knew who the Venoms were. Not a personal favourite, but still quality entertainment with great action scenes.
- DirectorYuen ChorStarsTung-Shing YeeMing-Chuen WangJung WangInspired from a famous martial arts tale, a young swordsman becomes obsessed with sword supremacy and challenges another kung fu master, where everything begins.Shaw does wuxia, and an interesting precursor to the later wire-work boom of 1990s HK cinema.
- DirectorCheh ChangWu MaStarsSheng FuKuan-Chun ChiLung TiThe Shaolin Temple is the last place to resist defeat by the Manchu Dynasty, mostly because of their unique fighting style. Men from far and wide come to wait outside the temple, hoping that they will be admitted as pupils. As the Abbot becomes older, he realizes that the Manchus are determined to destroy the temple and eradicate the Shaolin fighting techniques. To this end, he decides that it is time at last to admit worthy men into the temple as students, to learn the way of Shaolin.A real Shaw Brothers epic. The ensemble cast introduced me to plenty of new faces.
- DirectorCheh ChangStarsTien-Chi ChengKuo ChaoYu-Po LiuTaoist Priest Yu Ji (Cheng Tien-Chi) is a victim of Magistrate Xu Gong's (Wong Lik) desire to kill General Sun Ce (Chiu Gwok) in a grab for power. Gong's plans go awry, as Yu Ji's spirit seeks revenge, after being publicly executed.A bizarre mix of comedy and fantasy, not always successful, but offbeat enough to be worth a look.
- DirectorYuen ChorStarsLung TiWei-Hao TengKuan-Chung KuThe 8th Prince and Chu Liu Hsiang pretend to be rivals and stage 8th Prince's assassination attempt in order for Chu to go undercover in the "Villa of Phantoms" to investigate, King Eagle, who has been recruiting criminals for evil plot.Another film unfortunately watched out of order (actually the third and final part of a trilogy). The convoluted plot takes some brain power to understand, but there's a nice role for one of my personal favourites, Lo Lieh.
- DirectorCheh ChangStarsSheng FuPhillip Chung-Fung KwokMeng LoLIFE GAMBLE is the tale of a simple blacksmith (Kuo Chue) with extraordinary martial-arts skills who is entangled in a life-and-death struggle among swordsmen, thieves, con artists, a smooth dagger-slinger (Fu Sheng), a beautiful seductress (Lin Chen-chi) who can kill with her smile, a servant with a deadly whip, an assassin with a golden hairpin, an iron-fisted villain on a murderous rampage, a ruthless gambler with seemingly unlimited funds, and so many more.Another outing for the Venoms and a superior one this one: tons of inventive action here, and some outstanding flag fu to boot.
- DirectorMeng-Hua HoStarsLieh LoTony LiuNancy YenAn evil gang of martial artists fight for a healing elixir against a specialist that fights with boomerang blades - the Dragon Missiles!Outlandish weaponry dominates this intriguing story. Good effects throughout, and a wonderfully complex central performance from Lo Lieh.
- DirectorChung SunStarsSheng FuFeng KuMichael Wai-Man Chanit is about a boy who knows kungfu, then someone from the west tries to steal their idol. Then a group of kendo fighters men came from Japan and attack him.An open copy of the Jackie Chan type formula and the first time I'd seen Alexander Fu Sheng shine in a leading role.
- DirectorTaylor WongStarsLeslie CheungMaggie CheungAnita MuiLesile is a young guy that uses the MTR everyday, and one day, he sees a beautiful lady (Maggie Cheung) on the train and likes her immediately. On the other hand, he also knows a tomboy (Anita Mui) on the train too (and she likes him too!). Then, with side-kicks like Chan and others the chase of love in the MTR system begins.In which Shaw does a romantic comedy. Now, I don't like rom coms at all as a rule, and generally avoid them at all costs whenever I can, but even so this is quite an entertaining addition to the genre, with a quality cast and solid direction.
- DirectorCheh ChangStarsPei-Pei ChengLieh LoLei ChengA wandering swordsman protects a family from the wrath of a clan chief.An interesting little wuxia fable with a small cast and cosy feel. Cheng Pei Pei and Lo Lieh are the stand-out performers here, and for what it's worth I preferred it to the much more famous Come Drink with Me.
- DirectorCheh ChangStarsPhillip Chung-Fung KwokSheng ChiangLi WangWhen director Chang Chen found new talent and blood with "The Five Venoms" actors, most of which were trained in the highly acrobatic Chinese opera and well versed with exotic martial arts weapons, this crated a new spark for his use of bizarre weapons in his films.A top-notch Venoms story featuring an all-star cast and director at the top of their game. Very difficult to top this one.
- DirectorCheh ChangHsueh-Li PaoWu MaStarsLung TiDavid ChiangChing TienToward the end of the Ching Dynasty, the South China Sea was swarming with pirates looking to plunder treasure-rich Portuguese merchant ships. A titanic tale of a daring and heroic "Robin Hood" of the seas.Okay, so the storyline's a bit muddled, but this one's worth a look just because the subject matter is so different from the rest and Ti Lung and David Chiang are watchable in just about anything.
- DirectorCheh ChangStarsKuan Tai ChenSheng FuKuan-Chun ChiWhen the "godfather of the kung-fu film" Chang Cheh decided to tell their stories with Alexander Fu Sheng, Chen Kuan-tai, and Chi Kuan-chun in the roles, it was cause for celebration. This film is one of the most beloved in the director's filmography. Each hero is given his own story, when they all come together in a final, day-long battle with hundreds of troops, the effect is unforgettable.Another Shaolin Temple-themed story. Not one of the very best from the studio, but Alexander Fu Sheng and his chums are always worth watching and the action is typically great.
- DirectorYuen ChorStarsLung TiLi ChingTung-Shing YeeOr Ti Lung vs. the Pink Blossom Bandit. A very dense story with fast pacing and colourful staging.
- DirectorCheh ChangStarsSheng FuDavid ChiangKuan-Chun ChiWealthy rebel Chu Tie Xia/Chu Te-Sa, conned out of assets by local merchants, is aided by 3 wandering con artists. Chu's talent with a bow and gold pellets and the Wushu of his 3 new companions unleash on the unsuspecting invading Mongols.A lighter touch than usual for Chang Cheh. Expect lots of hijinks, lots of scamming, and ensemble players. Plus the oddest Mongol general you'll ever see...
- DirectorKang ChengStarsTony LiuFanny Fen-NiHelen PoonA probation officer tries to help a prisoner who faces harassment from corrupt guards and inmates.A dark and harrowing prison drama is the Shaw answer to Midnight Express. Expect social commentary and nihilism, no martial arts here.
- DirectorMeng-Hua HoStarsPing ChenHua YuehLieh LoAfter her whole family was slaughtered under the order of the emperor, a pregnant martial artist is on the run, and struggles to avoid being caught or back-stabbed by even her closest friends.Another flying guillotine-themed story. Tight plotting, a pregnant heroine, and plenty of reasons to tune in.
- DirectorCheh ChangStarsDavid ChiangLung TiLi ChingDuel Of Fist was another hit from the "iron triangle" of director Chang Cheh and stars David Chiang and Ti Lung. And, as with all the director's classics, one good hit deserves another, so this sequel was called for. When last we left our heroes, they had triumphed against evil in Thailand. But a vengeful Japanese gangster has their mother killed and one of their girlfriends kidnapped.A simplistic modern-day sequel from the studio. Lung and Chiang go up against Japanese gangsters and it all plays out much as you'd expect.
- DirectorHsia HsuStarsYue WongJeong-lee HwangKam CheungNovice director Hsu Hsia and three other kung-fu designers created this fight-filled tale of young rascal Wang Yu, caught between master martial arts actor Jen Shih-kuan and the incredible Huang Cheng-li.A nice vehicle for the underrated Wong Yue. Expect student rivalry, a super Hwang Jang Lee villain, and even some hopping vampires thrown into the mix.
- DirectorWei LoStarsPei-Pei ChengHua YuehLi-Jen HoThis top ten hit reunites Come Drink With Me's stars for a new adventure. Whether single-handedly fighting sixteen bandits, avenging her father's death, or solving multiple murders, our heroine shows why she's Hong Kong's number one sword - and whip - woman!A snowbound wuxia-type tale with a vengeful heroine. Some of the wire work is dated, but the story is solid enough.
- DirectorChia TangStarsLung TiTe-Lo MaiLeanne LauA Kung Fu master finds out that an opium den is destroying the lives of the town he lives in, and vows to put an end to the den, but first he must try to defeat the strongest enemy he has ever faced: his addiction to the drug itself.Ti Lung gets to act as well as fight. A top supporting cast in this one, headlined by Chen Kuan Tai's master villain. Strong plotting and plenty of melodrama make for a worthwhile viewing.
- DirectorSze Yu LauStarsKuo Hua ChangYiu-Sing CheungYing-Ying HuiA martial artist must train incessantly to defeat the brutally powerful thief called Centipede.Comedy action involving rival school students. Gordon Liu stars. Not one of the studio's best, but the ending is decent.
- DirectorShan HuaStarsLeslie CheungJing-Jing YungKuan Tai ChenLittle Dragon Maiden mixes the old with the new to create pure golden magic as kung-fu fighting veterans Chen Kuan-Tai and Lo Lieh join relative newcomer Leslie Cheung in a far-out swordplay love story that rocks.An uneven fantasy effort that owes much to Zu: Warriors from Magic Mountain. Expect cheesy and rubbery special effects, dated scenery, and the unique sight of Lo Lieh as a human toad.
- DirectorCheh ChangStarsPhillip Chung-Fung KwokHsueh-Erh WenTien-Hsiang LungYuan finishes his training in the mountains and his master gives him an assignment. In his journey, he finds a cave containing a skeleton, a treasure chest, and a manual showing the Golden Snake style. So Yuan sets on the way to accomplish the last desire of the dead person he found in the cave.An interesting late vehicle for the remaining Venoms. The story is based on a novel and is flawed in that too much of the running time is devoted to needless flashbacks. Still, the main actors continue to impress...
- DirectorChang-hwa JeongStarsChiao ChiaoLiang ChenHsieh WangThis tale is about a decapitating swordswoman who will let nothing stand in her way when she falls in love with a bandit's son. Chiao Chiao, made famous in One-Armed Swordsman, is the girl who won't let such trifles as craniums keep her from freeing her man from jail. The one villain who manages to keep his head (in every definition of the phrase) is Fan Mei-sheng.A second-tier cast work well with the material at hand and the story about an imprisoned swordsman has plenty of twists and turns along the way.
- DirectorYuet-Sang ChinHsia HsuStarsMeng LoYue WongPan Pan YeungTwo young martial artists find themselves the unlucky owners of a top-secret list of kung-fu alliances.Rare Shaw outing is nowhere near as bad as is said. The story has a good balance of comedy, tragedy and pathos, and Wong Yue works hard to excel.
- DirectorCheh ChangHsueh-Li PaoStarsKuan Tai ChenLi ChingMu ChuChen Kuan-tai exuded incredible power on screen, which his directors used to great advantage in this fight-filled follow-up to the smash hit The Boxer From Shantung -- which culminates in an incredible climatic battle, choreographed by the legendary Liu Chia-liang and Chen Chuan.A worthy follow-up to Boxer from Shantung that tells much the same tale with a slightly modernised setting involving motorbikes, cars, and leather jackets. The widespread action is fantastic.
- DirectorLieh LoStarsChia-Hui LiuLieh LoLung-Wei WangThe monk Hung Wen-Ting fights against the evil priest White Lotus.A rare opportunity to see Lo Lieh directing as well as taking the main villain role. Gordon Liu is the earnest hero and there's some bizarre acupuncture fu to boot.
- DirectorChia TangStarsLung TiTung-Shing YeeJason Piao PaiAs the names of Chang Cheh and Liu Chia-liang became legendary, all-too-often the name of their equally valued collaborator, Tang Chia, is omitted. That may be,because, unlike the previous pair, the veteran kung-fu choreographer only went on to direct three movies of his own. Of course, that makes this trio all the more special, and this first effort perhaps the most special of all. It may be an eye-filling, mind-bending martial arts tale of two royal princes battling for the rightful recovery of the throne, but it's also a party, where Tang invites two cinematographers, three editors, and no less than five other choreographer friends to almost literally shoot the works. The results are kung-fu configurations not only never seen before, but never even imagined!Strong martial arts story with fantastic touches. The opening is arresting and finally gives Yuen Wah his dues. The fantasy aspects work well and the ending is appropriately fantastic.
- DirectorCheh ChangStarsDavid ChiangLung TiLi ChingThis 1971 top ten hit - a post-Chinese Revolution action adventure of rebels battling warlords -- is another great example of its famed director, stars, and kung-fu choreographer's talen and charisma.Lung and Chiang team up to take on some warlords and their armies in this action-packed tale. The story is slight but there's plenty going on, not least the endless violence to keep you watching.
- DirectorCheh ChangWu MaStarsSheng FuJenny TsengHsia Hui WuInternational favorite Alexander Fu Sheng cemented his stardom in this, the fourth film in his esteemed director's "Shaolin" series. Fu gives both a great dramatic and kung-fu performance as an honorable carriage driver who finds love and death when he battles particularly homicidal street punks.A straightforward tale of bloody revenge showcases Alexander Fu Sheng at his best and never disappoints. Also a great opportunity to see Wang Lung Wei excelling as a master villain.
- DirectorChia-Liang LiuStarsChia-Liang LiuKara WaiHou HsiaoCheng Tai-Nan (Kara Hui) is an honest and faithful servant of a dying patriarch who wants nothing more than to protect his vast wealth from his selfish, conniving nephew, Yung-Sheng. Tai-Nan is young enough to be his granddaughter, but still agrees to marry her master so that all of his wealth will be lawfully safe with her so she can then transfer it to Ching-Chuen (Lau Kar-Leung), her new husband/master's favorite nephew. This angers the hateful Yung-Sheng greatly, who sends multiple thugs after Tai-Nan, but she is a highly skilled martial artist who is not easily defeated. Amazingly, things become even more complicated when Ching-Chuen's son, Yu Tao (Hou Hsiao), arrives home from a university in Hong Kong and discovers a mysterious women in his house and attacks her, not realizing she is actually his new great aunt, Tai-Nan. Complicating things even more is the uncomfortable sexual tension between Yu Tao and Tai-Nan. Next Yung-Sheng finally manages to steal all the paperwork, titles, and deeds to Ching-Chuen's wealth. Left with no choice but to lead an all-out attack against Yung-Sheng at his booby-trapped mansion, Tai-Nan decides to get Ching-Chuen and his older brothers back into fighting shape.Something a little different this time around: a musical comedy featuring the excellent Kara Hui as a femme fatale fighter. Liu Chia-Liang plays in support as well as directing and the result is unique to say the least.
- DirectorKang ChengShao-Yung TungStarsHua TsungMei Sheng FanChung-Hsin HuangThe cast of The 14 Amazons is a veritable "who's who" of golden age of Shaw Brothers swordplay adventures, and was not only a major box office hit.Big budget melodrama from the Shaw stable. Once again the General Yang storyline plays out, this time with a female twist. Expect action on a massive scale.
- DirectorChung SunStarsYue WongFeng KuLung-Wei WangStarring kung-fu comedienne Wang Yu, a kid on a mission of justice, this film features plentiful ripsnorting martial arts by Jackie Chan's kung-fu classmates Yuen Hua and Yuan Pin, and Shaw Brothers' best martial arts fighting villain Wang Lung-wei.Little-known comedy action from Wong Yue. Worth it to see Yuen Wah and Dick Wei getting to do a little more than play the usual typecast villain turns that they're known for.
- DirectorCheh ChangStarsDavid ChiangLung TiKuan Tai ChenA town is taken over by a brutal gang, which has taken a safe in a robbery of another town and needs to find someone who can open it for them. They terrorize the townsfolk, beating up and even killing some of them, until several young men who know martial arts decide to stand up to the criminalsA simple story, well told, and a personal favourite of mine. An all-star cast of five fighters battle to save a village from a bandit gang. Shades of Seven Samurai, but the style is all Shaw.
- DirectorChung SunStarsLung TiYue WongFeng KuThe Kung-Fu Instructor was director Sun Cheng's homage to Akira Kurosawa's Yojimbo where Ti Lung plays a righteous weapon instructor. It's the first time a Shaw Brother's director uses a Steadicam giving the action a unique brand of tension and rhythm.The plot is somewhat convoluted, but Ti Lung never fails to impress and there's some decent pole fighting included.
- DirectorYuen ChorStarsFei AiErik Ka-Kei ChanKwok-Kuen ChanLiu Yung and Sun Chien (the Korean kicking The Five Venom from Chang Cheh's internationally popular series) team up to investigate the martial-art murders of a supposedly mortally wounded swordsman, only to find deception, death, double-dealings, impostors and one deadly duel after another.A tale set in the martial world that made my head spin. There's some good action and a comic book feel, but the plot is so complex that I didn't follow the story too well.
- DirectorYuen ChorStarsLung TiJung WangFeng KuanIt's Ti Lung versus Lo Lieh in the period piece action movie The Emperor And His Brother that features some marvellous sets and rudimentary special effects that delightfully gives Ti Lung's character's secret "peacock fist" technique a fantastical dimension.Another adaptation of a Louis Cha novel and another complex story. Not a favourite of mine, although Lo Lieh is always worthwhile and the effort is there.
- DirectorChia-Liang LiuStarsChia-Hui LiuKara WaiTe-Lo MaiWong Fei-Hong and his once-rival, now friend, find themselves and their martial arts schools pitted against a rival school which uses a Kung Fu expert from the North to do their dirty work.Another fine effort from Liu Chia-Liang exploring the different styles of the martial arts, particularly the northern and southern styles of Chinese kung fu. Offers the unique chance to see Wang Lung Wei playing something other than a stock bad guy.
- DirectorCheh ChangStarsJason Piao PaiFeng LuMeng LoTwo friends who long to be heroes join the fight against a Ching warlord and his students. They get help from a Kung Fu student and a rebel. They also save Hung Si Quan's life.Expert direction and incredible action from the Venoms - what else would you expect? The 20-minute action climax is literally jaw-dropping, featuring Lu Feng at his very best.
- DirectorCheh ChangStarsSheng FuShirley YuSusan Yam-Yam ShawAfter getting in trouble with local gangs, a young man (Fu Sheng) flees to San Francisco, where the same gangs are still causing problems. He becomes a part of a rival gang, and eventually decides to play them against each other in order to clean up the town.Contemporary rival gang action in San Francisco. Fu Sheng is typically excellent, but the real treat lies in seeing the usually underutilised Sun Chien as the second lead.
- DirectorCheh ChangHsueh-Li PaoWu MaStarsDavid ChiangLung TiKuan Tai ChenTells the story of the 108 Heroes who stood up against a corrupt government. Each hero has his own unique fighting skill, but they are all willing to die to uphold justice.The Shaw Brothers go for the epic treatment with this novel adaptation. The tale twists all over the place and remains unpredictable throughout. Watch it and try to spot all the stars.
- DirectorChia-Liang LiuStarsChia-Hui LiuKuan Tai ChenYue WongTeenager Wong Fei-hung is sent to train in the art of hung gar kung fu from his father's teacher, Luk Ah-choy. With training complete, Wong must fight an assassin and regain the honor of his school.Bandits and rival schools clash in this story. Not one of the best but always watchable, thanks in part to Gordon Liu.
- DirectorCheh ChangStarsDavid ChiangChing LeeLung TiLei Li lost his right-arm in a sword duel with the master of a martial arts school, long ago. Now, he is able to defend himself well with just his left arm, and kung fu techniques. That he proves with just the help of his friend Chung-Chieng, when he crosses his path with a beautiful girl in need, Pao Chiao. Even against impossible odds, he will prove a great warrior.An incredible and fiery story of treachery and revenge. The gore in this one is absolutely outrageous and the tale is a real classic. Fingers crossed for an affordable Blu-ray release.
- DirectorChun-Ku LuStarsNorman ChuTony LiuJung WangHsu Shao-chiang stars as a veritable "Spider-Swordsman" - master of the "Silkworm Style" - in this eye-filling, mind-bending martial arts phantasmagorical which truly warrants the description: "unforgettable."Norman Chu headlines an odd and not always entirely successful fantasy-tinged story. The silkworm style will blow your mind.
- DirectorChih-Hung KueiStarsKuan Tai ChenFeng KuJason Piao PaiRighteous constable Leng Tian-Ying has a fearsome reputation of killing criminals without remorse. But after being assigned to track a gang that robbed the imperial treasury, he comes to find that his reputation is being used against him.The martial arts genre at its most downbeat and nihilistic. Chen Kuan Tai excels as the brutal sword master tasked with tracking down a shipment of stolen gold. Pessimistic isn't the word.
- DirectorCheh ChangStarsLi Hua LiSheng FuKa-Yan LeungSet in China, at the height of the Boxer Rebellion, a group of fearless Chinese patriots, armed with just their fists and bare feet try to ward off the incursion from European invaders.The title says it all. I've rewatched the remastered version whch improves things no end, making this a stand-out blend of action and politics, intricately mixed.
- DirectorCheh ChangStarsJimmy Wang YuChiao ChiaoHsiang Chun LiYu is a two-armed swordsman who is betrayed by a jealous rival, but initially seeks a life of simple pleasures until an accidental meeting with another patriot sets him back on the road to bloody, brutal vengeance.A collaboration for Jimmy Wang Yu and Chang Cheh. Not one of the studio's best, but the seeds of greatness are here. The beginning and end are great.
- DirectorChang-hwa JeongStarsChing LeeLieh LoHsieh WangIn this stirring saga of the "Martial Arts World," Lo Lieh plays a righteous swordsman trying to protect another hero's wife and daughter from a corrupt minister's murderous plans...two years before he and the director Cheng Chang-ho would become internationally famous for King Boxer.A complex, ever-shifting story of heroes and bandits, corrupt officials and wandering swordsmen. Lo Lieh excels once again as the hero.
- DirectorChia-Liang LiuStarsYue WongChia-Hui LiuLieh LoA prince enlists a thief to serve as his bodyguard to protect him from assassins.Comedy hijinks from Gordon Liu and Wong Yue. Liu Chia-Liang's expert martial arts choreography is the real star of the show, as always.
- DirectorCheh ChangStarsDavid ChiangLung TiFeng KuA prince of the Sung Dynasty has been taken prisoner by Ching invaders and is being held in an impenetrable fortress by elite men of the Ching. A group of fighters loyal to the Sung set out on a treacherous journey to the fortress in order to free the prince. A mysterious stranger is recruited to accompany the fighters to help them gain access to the fortress.Another pairing with David Chiang and Ti Lung. This is a short film packed to the brim with bloody action and intense rescue missions. Oh, and Chang Cheh directed it. No more needs to be said...
- DirectorChih-Hung KueiStarsNi TienJung WangSzu-Chia ChenA man who believes that he has murdered his wife, sees her return as a vengeful ghost.It's taken me a while to see this horror classic but it was well worth the wait. What starts as a remake of Les Diaboliques soon goes into typical crazy Shaw territory featuring graphic body horror, tons of scares, gags, and great plot twists.
- DirectorCheh ChangStarsSheng FuNiu TienDanny LeeA young man must complete a series of martial art tests and overcome assassins along the way.Alexander Fu Sheng takes the lead role in the first of Chang Cheh's series, based on novels by Louis Cha. It's a densely-plotted story of the martial world.
- DirectorCheh ChangStarsSheng FuNiu NiuDanny LeeKuo Tsing wins the hand of fair maiden Huang Yung. Almost immediately, however, clan rivalries leads to Kuo being wounded by Ouyang Feng and Huang being named new leader of the Beggar Clan.This follow-up to The Brave Archer offers more of the same, benefiting from Wang Lung Wei's villainous frog master and some colourful supporting performances. Watch it like a hawk else you won't know what's going on.
- DirectorCheh ChangStarsSheng FuNiu NiuLung TiThe third installment of The Brave Archer series brings Guo Jing and Huang Rong closer together as they struggle to find a cure for the Iron Palm Clan's deadly blows.Fu Sheng takes a back in this third instalment of the Brave Archer series. Most of the attention is on bald-headed Ti Lung and his henchmen, played by the delightful Venoms. Worth it for the fight climax.
- DirectorCheh ChangStarsSheng FuTien-Hsiang LungPhillip Chung-Fung KwokBrave Archer and His Mate is the fourth in a series originally starring international favorite Alexander Fu Sheng as master martial artist Kuo Tsing. Kuo Chui is the new hero who is out to defeat the mass murderer of his martial arts masters.The last of the Brave Archer films. Venom Phillip Kwok takes over the Fu Sheng role, although Fu Sheng is still here, playing a younger and bratty character. The story's a bit of a mess, but the rest of the Venoms show up to deliver some quality action late-on.
- DirectorMar LoStarsSiu-Tung ChingChiu-Sing HauFeng KuanA small-time crook goes in search of the other half of a wooden keepsake which will lead him to the legendary kung fu technique of the Gibbon Clan Fist.A slimly-plotted Jackie Chan imitation, but the slick production values and strong action choreography see this one through.
- DirectorTseng-Chai ChangStarsLily HoHua YuehFeng ChinA gambler helps an old friend defeat a crooked gambler.A slow gambling-themed drama that builds to a brilliantly bloody climax, Boxer from Shantung-style. Lily Ho and Yueh Hua star.
- DirectorChih-Hung KueiStarsBirte ToveLieh LoHsieh WangA nurse in a Japanese women's POW camp during World War II masterminds an escapee.Shaw try their hand at a WIP film with variable results. Although not as assured as their kung fu or horror films, this exploitation flick is fairly watchable, and at least has a good role for one of my all-time favourites, Lo Lieh.
- DirectorKuen YeungStarsNorman ChuPhillip KoMaria JoA Hong Kong taxi driver's life horribly falls apart after accidentally hitting a sorcerer with his cab. He decides to seek the sorcerer's help to turn the curse on his enemies at the expense of his own life.Another icky horror classic along the lines of the Black Magic series. Underrated star Phillip Ko plays a taxi driver driven to the edge by his wife's murder. What follows is packed with gross and excellent FX work, exploitation staples, and Norman Chu. It has everything you could want in a horror movie, in other words.
- DirectorYuen ChorStarsLily HoHua YuehBetty Pei TiThe Four Seasons Brothel is run by a ruthless madam, Lady Chun Yi. Countless young girls have been kidnapped or bought and then sold into a life of servitude, prostitution, and torture at this brothel. Ai Nu, an honest, but poor family's only daughter, is one of the newest girls that was recently kidnapped and sold to Lady Chun. To complicate matters even more, Lady Chun is a lesbian and quickly falls in love with the virginal Ai Nu, who will not let her spirit be broken and tries to escape again and again. This causes Lady Chun to use all of her resources to break her, including auctioning off Ai Nu's virginity to a group of wealthy businessmen. She eventually entrusts Ai Nu with a number of ancient kung-fu secrets like the Ghost Hands, which allows you to thrust your fists into an opponent's chest. Soon after murder erupts within the brothel. A diligent detective, Chi Te, visits the brothel and becomes increasingly involved in the murder investigation. He realizes he must do everything he can to prevent Ai Nu from taking her much deserved revenge on everyone that has wronged her over the years.A slow moving character piece, set in a brothel and directed by Chor Yuen. Lily Ho is a woman seeking revenge and Yueh Hua a detective, but the real star is Betty Pei Ti as the cruel madam. The ending delivers.
- DirectorCheh ChangStarsSheng FuKuan-Chun ChiYi Ling ChenWhen the ruling dynasty in China sends soldiers to destroy the Shaolin Temple, students use their martial arts to defend the school.A familiar story from Chang Cheh, but one which really focused on training styles for the first time. Also a milestone in the careers of many up-and-coming stars like Alexander Fu Sheng, Gordon Liu, Beardy, and Wang Lung Wei.
- DirectorMeng-Hua HoStarsDavid ChiangPing ChenMichael Wai-Man ChanDavid Chiang plays a hero who is the master of a secret kung-fu technique and uses it to avenge his father's death in this martial arts chiller Shaolin Hand Lock. A must see for all.A ludicrous story, but at least David Chiang and Lo Lieh are on fire. This contemporary family drama with added fight action is set in Bangkok and features a good role for real-life Triad Chan Wai-Man.
- DirectorTun-Fei MouStarsHung YenFeng ChiMing ChenIllegal immigrants from mainland China are smuggled into Hong Kong. They are captured by a gang, then raped, tortured, and murdered.An extraordinarily grim and powerful thriller from the notorious T.F. Mous. May be Shaw's hardest-hitting movie. A group of illegal immigrants are tortured, raped, and abused by people smugglers. Hardly entertaining, but it does make one heck of a statement.
- DirectorTaylor WongStarsTung-Shing YeeOn-On YuKara WaiThe Buddha's Palm, a technique by which an ordinary hand is transformed into a formidable force. Ku, a blind recluse living in a cave, knows its secret, which proves to be as much a blessing as a curse as it attracts all manner of mayhem.A madcap martial world fantasy that acts as a special effects showcase, featuring all manner of madness from dragons to magical beams, extending feet and superhero powers.
- DirectorYuen ChorStarsTung-Shing YeeOn-On YuLi ChingA young man learns about the secrets hidden in the Heavenly Sword and the Dragon Sabre to become the head of the Kung-Fu world, while unifying the Chinese Zoroastrianism Cult, and eventually overthrows the Mongolian Dynasty.The first part of Chor Yuen's Heaven Sword & Dragon Sabre trilogy. This is less satisfying as an individual film, merely setting up a complex martial world and a sprawling tapestry of characters before ending with a trailer for what looks to be a more action-packed sequel.
- DirectorChia-Yung LiuStarsSheng FuChia-Hui LiuChan-Peng ChangThis movie is both one of the best-loved action comedies ever, and Alexander Fu Sheng's comeback film after breaking both his legs. It left no doubt that he was truly back in action, taking on cops, monks, and bad guys galore!A typical, and undistinguished, knockabout star comedy teaming up Alexander Fu Sheng with his real-life brother and Gordon Liu. Wang Lung Wei's murderer steals the show, and it builds to a great climax featuring wooden dummies and 'glue fu'.
- DirectorMeng-Hua HoStarsEvelyne KraftDanny LeeFeng KuA greedy Hong Kong businessman captures a 50-foot-tall ape from the Himalayas and puts it on display, but it escapes and goes on a rampage.Shaw's answer to the KING KONG remake is a delightfully cheesy slice of kaiju action. Expect back projection effects and drugged animals galore, along with a mix of jungle adventure and city-smashing mayhem. 88 Asia's Blu-ray presentation of this trash classic is phenomenal.
- DirectorFeng YuehStarsYi ChangPing ChinHsin-Yen ChaoWei Fu is a seemingly unremarkable woodcutter but when his family is wiped out by psychotic marauders, Wei undertakes extensive martial arts training at the hands of an expert swordsman and sets out to exact revenge on the evildoers.A vicious swordplay effort, heavily stylised and indebted to Japanese samurai cinema. The story is simple but effective, and the action hits hard.
- DirectorYuen ChorStarsFei AiBobby CanavarroGa-Yee ChanOnly the union of the title weapons can save the six remaining martial arts sects who are vying for mastery.This sequel to the original movie just about passes muster, and is only saved thanks to the fancy staging and a great look. It's still a confusing mess, though, and the various fight scenes just don't cut the mustard compared to what Chang Cheh was doing at the time.
- DirectorYuen ChorStarsSheng FuWai-Kwok NgHsueh-Erh WenThis tale of hidden treasure and a young wushu warrior in the Valley of Villains is considered among the best from director Chu Yuan and celebrated author Ku Lung. Making the production even more special is the presence of international favorite Alexander Fu Sheng.Another dense Chor Yuen outing, although this one has a lighter touch than usual thanks to the presence of Alexander Fu Sheng as the lead.
- DirectorShan HuaStarsYue WongChia-Hui LiuLinda ChuSuperstar Gordon Liu Chia-hui teams up with the kung-fu comedian Wang Yu in Tales Of A Eunuch. Don't let the title fool you, it is "balls to the walls" martial arts action.A sprawling, knockabout comedy for star Wong Yue. Good luck trying to keep track of the plot which seems to be all over the place, but at least you'll laugh a lot.
- DirectorYuen ChorStarsLung TiTony LiuLieh LoMaster of the "swordplay thriller" genre, Chu Yuan and renowned kung-fu choreographer Tang Chia tell the fabulous tale of the "Fastest Swordsman in the World" facing the "1000 Face Devil" and no less than seven murderers.A typical 'martial world' tale from Chor Yuen, with Ti Lung wasted as the lead. However, it benefits from endless cameo appearances, a top-form Lo Lieh, and some really outre twists in the narrative.
- DirectorYuen ChorStarsTony LiuHua YuehYun LingFollowing such hits as Killer Clans and Clans Of Intrigue, the winning team of director Chu Yuan and novelist Ku Lung reunite with revered martial art choreographers Tang Chia and Huang Pei-chi for an atmospheric, character-rich, action-packed adventure about a mysterious masked highwayman.More martial world madness from Chor Yuen, but this one's tighter and more focused than usual, and thus less confusing. Tony Liu works his way through a starring cast of cameoing Shaw stars, trying to find a fighter with a knack for blinding their opponents.
- DirectorChia-Liang LiuStarsSheng FuAdam ChengKara WaiOne of Liu Chia-liang's classics,.Cat VS Rat is almost a full-scale slapstick comedy, as well as a tailor-made showcase for the "odd couple" of Alexander Fu Sheng and Cheng Shao-chiu. Their wushu squabbling for supremacy ultimately imperils an incognito emperor, resulting in a sparkling and unexpected family affair, from the king of kung-fu filmmaking.Liu Chia-Liang misses the mark with this broad comedy featuring Alexander Fu Sheng at his most extreme in terms of mugging, dumb comedy. Cameos from Wang Lung Wei and Gordon Liu are wasted, and only the fast pace and period fixings keep it from being watchable.