Reviewed by:
Emaxx
A grand effort indeed from the director of such classics as GANGMASTER, BUDDHIST FIST and BURY ME HIGH ---CHUI SIU MING who also does the action choreography on this piece , shows us his true credentials as both director and kung fu actioner . This film came out at a time when the kung fu genre was limping along to the emergency room for E R care ; and while It did not succeed in resuscitating the genre especially from an old skool point of view , it sure did one hell of a job showcasing the power and flamboyance of shaolin kung fu.
Simple but effective plot ; YU RONG GUANG (iron monkey) from the wu dang temple is tasked to destroy shaolin and secure the holy robe as a symbol of the dominance of wu dang , leadership of shaolin and the martial world. He challenges the shaolin high priest and with treachery and a few of his followers , over-run shaolin. A small contingent of monks were lucky enough to escape shaolin and with the robe as well. CHUI HUNG MING leads the small band of shaolin escapees who seeks the ousting of YU RONG GUANG from the temple .
Some truly remarkable choreography on hand , demonstrating with awe, the fllamboyance and fluidity of great kung fu forms. Shapes are in no short supply ,as the acrobatics from the monks in some of the most authentic training sequences you'll ever see are vividly captured. there are literally hundreds of extras lending to the epic aspect of the film complemented by some beautifully shot scenery across the oriental landscape.The effects with the use of wires are used rather well ; only to sharpen or highlight the effectiveness of the martial arts on display rather than sensationalizing the impossible .
Much of the cast are unknowns who does very well with some flashy and memorable moves, particularly with weapons.This is a film I should have reviewd at a time when FLASHLEGSRARE was still a viable commercial outlet. I am sure many would have found this film an exceptional piece .
However, for those who still wish for kung fu at the highest level , then please make an effort to get this one, It is a truly spectularly shot and magnificently choreographed kung fu film.
A gem indeed.
" must have "
emaxx(audley)
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