SHAWSCOPE Vol 3 - Blu-ray Review - Jade Tiger, Sentimental Swordsman, The Avenging Eagle, Killer Constable, Buddha’s Palm, and Bastard Swordsman.
Jade Tiger (Disc 6)
Jade Tiger (1977), directed by the legendary Chu Yuan and produced by Shaw Brothers, is a compelling blend of martial arts action and intrigue, offering a visually stunning and thematically rich story. Starring the charismatic David Chiang, Jade Tiger delivers an intense and atmospheric journey filled with betrayal, vengeance, and the unrelenting pursuit of justice. While the plot may seem like a familiar tale of revenge, the execution—driven by strong performances and meticulously choreographed fight sequences—elevates the film, making it an underrated gem in the wuxia genre.
The film follows the story of a skilled swordsman, Mu Ren (David Chiang), whose life is thrown into chaos when he is framed for a crime he didn’t commit. After the murder of his father, Mu Ren embarks on a path of vengeance, uncovering a conspiracy within a powerful family, the Wang clan, that stretches across the martial arts world. As he seeks to clear his name and avenge his father, Mu Ren faces off against a series of foes, navigating complex alliances and dangerous enemies, all while wielding the deadly "Jade Tiger" sword—a legendary weapon said to grant unparalleled power to its bearer.
David Chiang brings a grounded intensity to the role of Mu Ren, effectively portraying the emotional depth of a man torn between seeking revenge and upholding his own moral compass. His journey is not just one of physical combat but also a moral dilemma as he grapples with the violence he must embrace to achieve justice. Chiang’s natural charisma shines through, allowing his character to move beyond mere archetype into a figure of complexity and relatability.
The action sequences, choreographed by Lau Kar-leung, are one of the highlights of Jade Tiger. The film blends the graceful elegance of traditional wuxia with raw, gritty swordplay that feels both thrilling and grounded. The fights, which are staged with a focus on skill and strategy rather than sheer spectacle, emphasize Mu Ren’s struggle and his growing mastery of both the blade and the heart. The standout sequences are those that feature intricate sword battles and intense hand-to-hand combat, filmed with an elegance and precision that was a hallmark of Shaw Brothers’ best wuxia films.
Visually, Jade Tiger is lush and captivating. Chu Yuan makes excellent use of the film’s set design, drawing the viewer into a world of opulent palaces, misty forests, and shadowy alleys, which serve as a perfect backdrop to the intrigue and betrayal at the heart of the story. The film’s color palette is rich and vivid, with costumes and lighting that add to the dreamlike yet perilous atmosphere of the wuxia world.
Despite its well-trodden narrative of revenge, Jade Tiger remains a standout due to its intricate plot twists, strong character development, and exceptional martial arts choreography. It explores themes of loyalty, vengeance, and justice with depth, creating a narrative that is as emotionally resonant as it is thrilling. Fans of classic Shaw Brothers productions and martial arts cinema will find Jade Tiger a visually captivating and engaging entry, with David Chiang’s dynamic performance anchoring the film’s emotional weight.
Jade Tiger is an underrated classic that marries the best aspects of the wuxia genre with compelling performances and masterful choreography. Chu Yuan’s direction, along with the contributions of the talented cast and crew, makes this a must-watch for anyone interested in the rich tradition of Hong Kong martial arts cinema.
The Sentimental Swordsman (Disc 6)
The Sentimental Swordsman (1977), directed by Chu Yuan and produced by Shaw Brothers, is a masterful blend of action, emotion, and character-driven drama. Starring the ever-charismatic David Chiang, the film presents a nuanced take on the wuxia genre, one that blends the familiar elements of swordplay and martial arts with a poignant exploration of love, loyalty, and redemption. With strong performances, a deeply engaging story, and elegant choreography, The Sentimental Swordsman stands out as one of the more emotionally resonant films in the Shaw Brothers’ wuxia catalog.
The film follows the story of Yen Nan-Fei (David Chiang), a skilled swordsman known for his deadly technique. However, unlike many of his peers, Yen is not motivated solely by ambition or glory. Instead, he is a deeply sentimental man, haunted by a past love and the death of his wife. This tragic loss has made him weary and disillusioned, yet his journey takes an unexpected turn when he is asked to retrieve a stolen treasure—a mission that draws him into a deadly web of political intrigue, personal vendettas, and the dangerous underworld of the martial arts community. Along the way, he forms a reluctant alliance with several characters, each of whom has their own hidden agenda, and Yen must ultimately decide what it means to live a life of honor while reconciling with his own emotional scars.
David Chiang’s portrayal of Yen Nan-Fei is one of the film’s strongest elements. Chiang brings a depth to the character that sets him apart from the more archetypal wuxia heroes. His Yen is not a cold, invincible figure but a man torn between his personal grief and his duty. Chiang’s sensitivity shines through in quieter moments, especially in his emotional struggle to overcome his sorrow and his inability to let go of the past. This makes Yen a more relatable and human character, grounded by feelings that make him vulnerable, despite his martial prowess.
The action sequences in The Sentimental Swordsman are beautifully choreographed, with swordplay that reflects the inner turmoil of the protagonist. Unlike many films in the genre that rely on fast-paced, sprawling battles, this film’s action is intimate and precise. Every movement is imbued with meaning, reflecting Yen’s internal conflict. The film’s use of swordfighting as a metaphor for personal struggle is a smart narrative device, elevating the film’s action beyond spectacle and making each duel an emotional release.
Chu Yuan’s direction is meticulous and deliberate, capturing the balance between the film’s emotional beats and its martial arts action. He uses the lush Shaw Brothers’ sets and vibrant color schemes to create a world that feels both timeless and dangerous. The cinematography complements the story’s tone—dark and moody in moments of reflection, but strikingly beautiful in the larger fight scenes. The film’s pacing is patient, allowing the characters and their motivations to develop naturally, which pays off in the latter half when the stakes of Yen’s emotional journey become more clear.
While The Sentimental Swordsman is certainly an action film, its deeper focus on Yen’s psychological and emotional journey makes it stand out within the genre. The film explores themes of love, loss, and the price of vengeance with sophistication and grace, weaving these elements seamlessly into the plot. Yen’s personal transformation—from a grief-stricken, reclusive swordsman to someone capable of facing his past—gives the film an emotional weight that many wuxia films lack.
The Sentimental Swordsman is a captivating and well-crafted film that successfully blends action with heartfelt emotion. With a powerful performance from David Chiang, exquisite swordplay, and thoughtful direction by Chu Yuan, the film remains a standout in the Shaw Brothers’ wuxia catalog. For fans of martial arts cinema looking for a story that resonates on both a physical and emotional level, The Sentimental Swordsman is a must-watch, proving that a sword can be as much a weapon of the heart as it is of battle.
Bonus Features
- Brand new 2K restorations of both films from the original negatives by Arrow Films
- Newly restored uncompressed Mandarin mono audio for Jade Tiger
- Newly restored uncompressed Mandarin and Cantonese mono audio for The Sentimental Swordsman
- Newly translated English subtitles for both films
- Brand new commentary on Jade Tiger by critic Ian Jane
- Brand new commentary on The Sentimental Swordsman by David West, author of Chasing Dragons: An Introduction to the Martial Arts Film
- Theatrical trailers for both films
The Avenging Eagle (Disc 7)
The Avenging Eagle (1978), directed by Chang Cheh and produced by Shaw Brothers, is a gritty and emotionally charged entry in the wuxia genre that delivers both intense action and a compelling story of redemption. With a standout performance from the legendary Ti Lung and a narrative that explores themes of vengeance, loyalty, and honor, The Avenging Eagle is a powerful martial arts film that showcases Chang Cheh’s ability to blend brutal action with complex character dynamics.
The story follows the path of two men, each scarred by their past, whose fates become intertwined by a thirst for revenge. Ti Lung plays the lead role of the "Avenging Eagle," a cold and skilled swordsman named Ku Feng, who is driven by a personal vendetta against a group of assassins who killed his parents. While on his quest for revenge, he meets and forms an uneasy alliance with a young man named Lei (Alexander Fu Sheng), who is also seeking to avenge a great wrong against his family. Together, the two men, bound by their shared desire for retribution, embark on a dangerous journey, facing not only external enemies but also their own internal struggles with morality and justice.
Ti Lung’s performance as Ku Feng is a standout, showcasing his ability to convey both physical prowess and emotional depth. Ku Feng is a man of few words, but his internal conflict and torment are palpable, making him a more sympathetic and relatable character than the typical wuxia avenger. Ti Lung brings a quiet intensity to the role, allowing the audience to see the toll that years of vengeance have taken on Ku Feng’s soul. In contrast, Alexander Fu Sheng provides a lighter, more energetic counterpart as Lei, and his performance adds a sense of youthful idealism to the darker, more brooding atmosphere of the film.
Director Chang Cheh, known for his gritty and often violent approach to wuxia, excels at crafting a film that blends heart-pounding action with complex emotional stakes. The action sequences in The Avenging Eagle are some of the most brutal and inventive of Shaw Brothers’ films, with swordfights that are swift, precise, and expertly choreographed. However, it is the quieter moments of the film, where the two main characters confront their personal demons, that give it its emotional resonance. The film effectively balances the external action with a deeper narrative about the cost of revenge and the possibility of redemption.
The supporting cast also deserves praise, with notable performances from Chiang Tao as the ruthless antagonist and Ku Feng’s long-time enemy, as well as the veteran actor Wong Yue, who plays a morally conflicted character caught between loyalty and self-preservation. The relationships between the characters feel real and grounded, adding layers to the story and ensuring that the stakes are not just physical but emotional as well.
The Avenging Eagle also stands out for its stylistic direction. Chang Cheh’s use of shadows and tight, intimate shots during fight sequences creates a tense atmosphere, drawing the audience into the characters’ emotions. The film’s darker tone is reinforced by a minimalist score that complements the grimness of the story. The film is visually stunning, with rich cinematography that captures both the beauty of the natural world and the harshness of the human spirit.
While The Avenging Eagle adheres to many of the conventions of the wuxia genre, it distinguishes itself with its focus on character development and moral complexity. The theme of vengeance is explored not as a simple pursuit of justice but as a destructive force that consumes both the avenger and the victim. The film’s resolution offers a bittersweet commentary on the futility of revenge and the possibility of redemption through self-sacrifice.
The Avenging Eagle is a standout wuxia film that combines brutal action with deep emotional resonance. With strong performances from Ti Lung and Alexander Fu Sheng, Chang Cheh’s masterful direction, and a story that explores the complexity of vengeance and redemption, the film remains one of Shaw Brothers’ most memorable offerings. It is a must-watch for martial arts fans who appreciate a compelling narrative along with expertly executed swordplay, and it serves as a powerful reminder of the genre’s ability to deliver both spectacle and substance.
Killer Constable (Disc 7)
Killer Constable (1977), directed by the legendary Chang Cheh, is a compelling, gritty addition to the Shaw Brothers’ catalog of martial arts films, blending brutal action with a darker, morally complex narrative. Starring the iconic Chen Kuan-tai in a powerful performance, the film explores the themes of law, justice, and personal redemption in the context of the cutthroat world of the martial arts underworld. With intense action sequences and a focus on the personal cost of duty, Killer Constable stands out as one of Shaw Brothers’ more unique and engaging offerings.
The story centers around the character of Chi (Chen Kuan-tai), a ruthless and skilled constable known for his merciless approach to justice. He is tasked with tracking down a group of bandits who have stolen a significant sum of money from the government. As Chi relentlessly pursues these criminals, he begins to discover that not all is as it seems. The deeper he delves into his mission, the more he is confronted by the harsh realities of his own role as an enforcer of the law—and the personal toll his actions take on those around him.
Chen Kuan-tai’s portrayal of Chi is one of the film’s strongest aspects. Chi is not your typical heroic figure; he is a man hardened by years of service, driven by duty but increasingly burdened by the brutal methods he uses to uphold the law. Chen Kuan-tai plays him with a cold efficiency that evolves throughout the film as Chi’s internal conflict becomes apparent. The film explores Chi’s transformation from a one-dimensional instrument of justice to a more complex and morally conflicted character. Chen’s performance anchors the film, making Chi a protagonist who is as sympathetic as he is ruthless.
Chang Cheh’s direction is, as always, precise and dynamic. Killer Constable is visually arresting, with well-choreographed action sequences that are intense and raw, utilizing the tight pacing and sweeping fight scenes that Chang Cheh is known for. The film’s combat scenes are fast and brutal, filled with close-quarters swordplay and vicious hand-to-hand combat. The choreography reflects the harsh realities of the world Chi inhabits, with each fight sequence serving to further illustrate his growing moral dilemma. The action is not just for spectacle—it’s integral to the story and the development of Chi’s character.
The film also excels in its exploration of justice and duty. Chi is a man who, at first, seems driven solely by a sense of professional obligation, but as the story progresses, his pursuit of the criminals leads him to question his own role in the system he enforces. His interactions with both the criminals and the people caught in the wake of his pursuit lead him to reflect on the nature of right and wrong, often making the audience question whether his ruthless methods are justified. The personal stakes of his mission intensify as Chi grapples with the fallout of his actions, making for a more emotionally resonant story than typical action-driven films of the genre.
While Killer Constable is undeniably a martial arts film, it also offers a deeper exploration of character and morality, offering a unique twist on the revenge-driven wuxia narrative. The secondary characters, including a series of colorful villains and conflicted allies, all contribute to the film’s themes of justice and redemption, making the story richer than the typical action plot.
The film’s visual style deserves special mention as well. The cinematography is stark, with muted colors and shadows that give the movie a somber, gritty tone. The sets and costumes are typical of Shaw Brothers' high production values, but it is the film’s mood and atmosphere that set it apart from other action films of the era. The direction emphasizes the bleakness of Chi’s journey, making the eventual resolution all the more poignant.
Killer Constable is an excellent example of Chang Cheh’s ability to combine high-octane action with deep, morally complex storytelling. With a standout performance from Chen Kuan-tai, intense martial arts combat, and a narrative that explores the cost of justice, the film offers a refreshing take on the wuxia genre. It’s a must-watch for fans of classic Shaw Brothers films, as well as those looking for a martial arts movie with a more nuanced, thought-provoking story.
Bonus Features
- Brand new 2K restorations of both films from the original negatives by Arrow Films
- Newly restored uncompressed Mandarin and English mono audio for both films, plus Cantonese mono for The Avenging Eagle
- Newly translated English subtitles for both films, plus optional hard-of-hearing subtitles for the English dubs
- Brand new commentary on The Avenging Eagle by martial arts cinema expert Frank Djeng
- Three brand new commentaries on Killer Constable: one by film critic and historian Tony Rayns; one by Frank Djeng; one by martial arts
- cinema expert Brian Bankston
- Additional and alternate scenes from the South Korean version of Killer Constable (in standard-definition)
- Alternate English-language title sequences for both films
- Theatrical trailers for both films
Buddha’s Palm (Disc 8)
Buddha’s Palm (1978), directed by the legendary Chang Cheh, is a vivid, action-packed wuxia film that blends fantasy, martial arts, and intricate storytelling. A departure from the usual swordplay-centered narratives that Shaw Brothers is best known for, this film introduces a more mystical element to the genre, with elaborate fight sequences and a fantastical storyline that explores themes of good versus evil, power, and destiny. While the film’s fantastical premise might initially seem a bit far-fetched, Chang Cheh’s direction and the commitment of the cast make Buddha’s Palm a memorable and entertaining entry in the wuxia genre.
The plot centers around a young and ambitious hero named Ling Hu Chong (played by the talented Ching Li), who stumbles upon the mystical “Buddha’s Palm,” a legendary martial arts technique with immense power. After a series of violent confrontations with rival martial artists and evil forces seeking to control the technique, Ling Hu Chong is forced to navigate a perilous path. Along his journey, he is challenged not only by external enemies but also by the moral dilemmas inherent in wielding such a potent and dangerous power. With an evil sorcerer, a sect of assassins, and a group of powerful martial artists all vying for control of the Buddha’s Palm, Ling’s journey is one of personal growth, learning, and ultimately, a test of character.
The central conceit of Buddha’s Palm is its unique blend of fantasy elements and martial arts combat. The Buddha’s Palm technique, which gives the wielder near-invincible abilities, introduces a different flavor to the usual wuxia martial arts. Instead of focusing purely on physical skills and agility, the film explores mystical forces, ancient artifacts, and cosmic destiny, all of which inject a sense of awe and wonder into the typical martial arts formula. Chang Cheh’s direction brings an imaginative quality to the film, as he fully embraces the fantasy aspect, incorporating elaborate visual effects and supernatural elements that make the martial arts choreography feel even more heightened and spectacular.
Ching Li’s performance as Ling Hu Chong is charismatic and heartfelt. He captures the internal conflict of his character, who is torn between the temptation of great power and the realization that such power can corrupt. His portrayal offers a refreshing take on the archetypical hero, giving the film an emotional depth that makes it more than just a spectacle. The supporting cast, including the great Ku Feng as the villainous sorcerer, adds further depth to the story, with each character driven by personal motivations that make them more than simple antagonists or allies. There’s a moral complexity at play here that raises the stakes of the film beyond simple action.
The film’s action sequences are a standout feature. True to the tradition of Chang Cheh’s work, the fight choreography is fluid, fast-paced, and dramatic. However, Buddha’s Palm is unique in its incorporation of supernatural elements into these fights. The titular technique allows for mind-bending combat, where the characters manipulate energy and even defy gravity in some sequences. While these fantastical elements might stretch the boundaries of traditional wuxia, they contribute to a visually spectacular experience. The exaggerated use of power, such as characters flying through the air or sending shockwaves with their blows, adds a larger-than-life feel to the martial arts that sets Buddha’s Palm apart from more grounded martial arts epics.
Cinematically, the film benefits from Shaw Brothers’ high production values, with colorful costumes, elaborate sets, and an atmospheric score that heightens the sense of adventure. The sets, which feature opulent temples, hidden caves, and lush landscapes, add a sense of grandeur to the story’s mystical elements, while the costumes and makeup help define the larger-than-life personas of the characters.
Though Buddha’s Palm might be seen as more of a fantasy action film than a traditional wuxia film, it still delivers on the classic elements that define the genre. It blends martial arts and mysticism seamlessly and offers a narrative that challenges its protagonist’s inner growth as much as it does his external combat skills. The result is a film that’s not only visually captivating but also emotionally resonant. The film’s exploration of good versus evil, power, and the consequences of wielding that power adds layers to the typical martial arts formula, making it a standout entry in Chang Cheh’s storied career.
In conclusion, Buddha’s Palm is a visually dazzling and imaginative wuxia fantasy that takes the genre in exciting new directions. With strong performances, spectacular martial arts choreography, and a unique blend of supernatural elements, the film offers a memorable and thrilling cinematic experience. Fans of classic Shaw Brothers productions and martial arts films will find much to enjoy in Buddha’s Palm, which stands as a testament to the creativity and vision that defined the studio’s golden age.
Bastard Swordsman (Disc 8)
Bastard Swordsman (1977), directed by the legendary Chang Cheh, is a high-octane, action-packed entry in the wuxia genre that blends traditional swordplay with a tale of revenge, betrayal, and family loyalty. Known for his ability to marry action with complex characters and moral quandaries, Chang Cheh brings all of his stylistic flourishes to this film, resulting in a gripping martial arts drama that stands out for its raw energy, distinctive character arcs, and unique plot twists. With brutal fight sequences and unexpected narrative developments, Bastard Swordsman offers a compelling look at the costs of vengeance and the blurry lines between good and evil.
The film tells the story of a young swordsman named Yin Chi-Wei (played by Lo Lieh), who is burdened by the shame of his birth and the death of his father. After the mysterious death of his father, Yin becomes obsessed with avenging him, determined to confront the evil forces responsible. As he embarks on his journey, he uncovers the dark secrets of his family’s past and is forced to confront a moral dilemma that will shape his future. The film’s title, Bastard Swordsman, is both a reflection of Yin’s personal identity crisis—having been born under mysterious and dishonorable circumstances—and the morally ambiguous path he must follow to seek justice.
What makes Bastard Swordsman stand out in the crowded wuxia genre is its willingness to embrace the complexity of its characters. Yin Chi-Wei is not a traditional hero but a deeply flawed figure. The title’s “bastard” label speaks to his struggle with his identity, his anger, and his desperation for vengeance, all of which make him a more nuanced and human character than many other martial arts heroes. Lo Lieh gives a strong performance, bringing a depth to Yin’s character that makes his eventual transformation believable. Throughout the film, Yin grapples with moral choices, struggling with whether to embrace the dark side of his power or find a path to redemption.
The supporting cast plays a crucial role in the development of Yin’s story, especially the characters of his love interest and the various villains that serve as obstacles along his path. Their roles may seem somewhat archetypal at first, but Chang Cheh deftly introduces shades of gray that challenge both the characters and the audience. The relationships between the characters are complex, and as Yin unravels his father’s legacy, he begins to realize that those around him may not be who they seem, further complicating his pursuit of justice.
Chang Cheh’s direction is as stylish as ever, with Bastard Swordsman benefiting from fast-paced, meticulously choreographed fight scenes that showcase the brutality and grace of swordsmanship. The action is unrelenting, with high-stakes swordfights that feel as personal as they are violent. What’s notable about the fight choreography in Bastard Swordsman is the way it conveys the emotional and psychological stakes of each battle. Rather than simply showcasing martial prowess, the combat scenes often reflect the internal turmoil of the characters, making each fight feel like a visceral expression of their motivations.
The film’s production values are top-notch, as expected from Shaw Brothers, with lavish costumes, vibrant sets, and a score that heightens the film’s intense atmosphere. The film’s visual style plays a key role in immersing the audience in its world, with lush landscapes and striking interior designs helping to establish the tone. The cinematography effectively contrasts the beauty of the natural world with the violence of the film’s central conflicts, creating a visually captivating experience that complements the film’s themes of duality and inner conflict.
One of Bastard Swordsman’s key strengths lies in its unpredictability. The narrative takes unexpected turns, with several plot twists that keep the audience on edge. What initially seems like a simple revenge story soon evolves into something far more intricate, with a web of lies and betrayals that add complexity to the central conflict. The film doesn’t shy away from portraying its characters’ flaws and mistakes, making the eventual resolutions feel earned, even if they are not always satisfying in the traditional sense.
In conclusion, Bastard Swordsman is a captivating and intense film that offers a more complex, character-driven take on the wuxia genre. With an engaging story, strong performances, and expertly choreographed fight sequences, the film stands as one of Shaw Brothers’ most ambitious and rewarding films. Chang Cheh’s direction brings out the moral complexity of the characters, particularly the conflicted protagonist, and the film’s exploration of family, identity, and vengeance adds depth to the genre’s typical action-focused narrative. For fans of martial arts cinema, Bastard Swordsman is a must-watch, offering a rich and thought-provoking cinematic experience.
Bonus Features
- Brand new 2K restorations of both films from the original negatives by Arrow Films
- Newly restored uncompressed Cantonese, Mandarin and English mono audio for Buddha's Palm
- Newly restored uncompressed Mandarin mono audio for Bastard Swordsman
- Newly translated English subtitles for both films, plus optional hard-of-hearing subtitles for the English dub on Buddha's Palm
- Brand new commentary on Buddha's Palm by critic and translator Dylan Cheung
- Brand new commentary on Bastard Swordsman by martial arts cinema expert Frank Djeng
- Alternate English title sequence for Buddha's Palm, as Raiders of the Magic Palm
- Theatrical trailers for both films
SHAWSCOPE Vol 3 will be released on Nov. 26th, if you pre-order from MVD today you can save 15% off the retail price! With the holiday season rapidly approaching, this will make a great gift for that Kung-Fu movie nerd in your life!!!