This is part 2 of my dive into the much-anticipated Shawscope Volume 3, a Limited-Edition Blu-ray box set poised to thrill martial arts aficionados and cinephiles alike. Today we'll be looking at The Lady Hermit, Intimate Confessions of a Chinese Courtesan, The 14 Amazons, The Magic Blade, and Clans of Intrigue.
The Lady Hermit (Disc 3)
The Lady Hermit, directed by Ho Meng-hua and released by Shaw Brothers Studio in 1971, is a refreshing entry in the wuxia genre, spotlighting powerful female leads in an era often dominated by male-centric martial arts narratives. This action-packed tale centers on a skilled swordswoman in hiding, her quest for vengeance, and the eager young protégé who insists on following in her footsteps. With top-notch performances from Cheng Pei-pei and Shih Szu, The Lady Hermit combines rich character development with intense fight sequences, offering audiences a wuxia classic that brings an intriguing mix of strength, mentorship, and revenge.
The story follows Shang Yen-chih, known as “Lady Hermit” (Cheng Pei-pei), a legendary swordswoman who is recovering in secrecy after a near-fatal confrontation with her archenemy, the sinister Black Demon (Wang Hsieh). While keeping a low profile, Shang meets Cui-ping (Shih Szu), a passionate and bold young woman eager to train under the Lady Hermit and prove herself in the martial world. Though initially reluctant, Shang eventually accepts Cui-ping as her disciple, setting off a journey of skill-building, personal growth, and a bond that deepens over time. But the threat of the Black Demon looms, and soon, both master and student must face their greatest challenges to secure justice and restore peace.
Cheng Pei-pei shines as the titular Lady Hermit, bringing a level of gravitas and complexity to her role that cements her status as one of the genre’s iconic stars. Known for her role in Come Drink with Me, Cheng again demonstrates her ability to portray both strength and vulnerability. Her character is more than just a fighter; she’s a woman grappling with her own mortality and doubts, balancing the weight of past failures with the hope that her young disciple can carry her legacy forward. Shih Szu, in her breakout role as Cui-ping, brings energy and conviction, adding a fresh perspective to the story with her determination and youthful optimism. The chemistry between Cheng and Shih is dynamic, showcasing the push-and-pull of a mentor-student relationship filled with mutual respect, frustration, and admiration.
The action sequences in The Lady Hermit are elegantly choreographed, underscoring both the physical skill and the distinct personalities of the characters. Director Ho Meng-hua uses these scenes to highlight the contrasting styles between the experienced Shang and the spirited Cui-ping, culminating in a thrilling showdown with the menacing Black Demon. The villain’s supernatural powers add an intriguing dimension to the fights, blending traditional wuxia with elements of mysticism.
Beyond the martial arts, The Lady Hermit explores themes of legacy, mentorship, and self-discovery, emphasizing that true strength comes not just from skill, but from resilience and personal growth. Shang’s journey of redemption and Cui-ping’s coming-of-age create a multi-layered narrative that elevates the film above standard genre fare.
With its compelling characters, strong performances, and meticulously crafted action, The Lady Hermit remains a standout in the wuxia genre, celebrating the power of women in a space traditionally occupied by men. For fans of martial arts cinema, this film is a must-watch, showcasing Shaw Brothers at its finest and proving that female-led wuxia films can be as thrilling and emotionally resonant as any in the genre.
Intimate Confessions of a Chinese Courtesan (Disc 3)
Intimate Confessions of a Chinese Courtesan, directed by Chor Yuen and released by Shaw Brothers in 1972, is a daring, genre-defying piece that blends wuxia, revenge drama, and erotic thriller elements. Groundbreaking in its themes and stylized approach, the film is widely regarded as one of Shaw Brothers' most provocative entries, challenging traditional boundaries in both storytelling and visual style.
The story revolves around Ainu (Lily Ho), a young woman abducted and forced into servitude at a high-end brothel run by the cunning Madame Chun (Betty Pei Ti). In a world ruled by deception and cruelty, Ainu quickly realizes her only way to survive is to manipulate the system that ensnares her. As she rises in the brothel hierarchy, she secretly nurtures a plan for vengeance against Madame Chun and the wealthy clients who have wronged her. As her resentment simmers, Ainu’s intentions turn deadly, setting the stage for a cold, calculated revenge.
Lily Ho delivers a gripping performance as Ainu, portraying her transformation from victim to avenger with subtlety and power. Ainu is no mere damsel in distress; she’s a woman who navigates her brutal reality with resilience, using her wits and beauty as weapons. Betty Pei Ti, as the enigmatic and ruthless Madame Chun, provides the perfect counterpoint, exuding an icy control that makes her a formidable antagonist. Their complicated, tension-filled relationship drives the film, with an undercurrent of desire that adds emotional depth to their conflict.
Chor Yuen’s direction is stylish and bold, infusing the film with a moody, atmospheric quality that adds to its mystique. The lush visuals and elaborate set designs typical of Shaw Brothers productions are present, but here they carry a darker, more sensuous tone, fitting the themes of power and seduction that run throughout the story. The fight scenes are intense, leaning more towards quick, brutal efficiency than the elaborate choreography often seen in wuxia films, enhancing the realism of Ainu’s revenge-driven transformation.
- 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
- Newly translated English subtitles for both films, plus optional hard-of-hearing subtitles for the English dubs
- Brand new commentary on The Lady Hermit by critic James Mudge
- Two brand new commentaries on Intimate Confessions of a Chinese Courtesan, one by film critic and historian Tony Rayns, one by critic Samm Deighan
- Alternate English export credits for Intimate Confessions of a Chinese Courtesan
- Theatrical trailers for both films
The 14 Amazons (Disc 4)
The 14 Amazons, directed by Cheng Kang and released by Shaw Brothers in 1972, is a sprawling, action-packed epic that tells the story of bravery, sacrifice, and fierce loyalty. Set during China’s Song Dynasty, this martial arts spectacle centers on the legendary Yang family, a clan of fearless female warriors who rise to defend their nation after male members of their family fall in battle. Known for its ensemble cast, impressive set pieces, and intense battle scenes, The 14 Amazons stands out as a pioneering film in both the wuxia genre and in its portrayal of powerful female warriors.
The story follows the aftermath of General Yang Zongbao’s death in battle against Western Xia forces. Refusing to let this tragedy be the end of their legacy, the women of the Yang family, led by the indomitable matriarch She Taijun (Lisa Lu), take up arms and vow to continue the fight. This includes her granddaughter Mu Guiying (Ivy Ling Po) and a group of women warriors who are as skilled as they are resolute. Together, they march into battle, facing countless obstacles, including a daunting enemy commander (played by Lo Lieh) and grueling terrain, culminating in a final showdown where strategy and sheer courage must prevail.
The film’s ensemble cast is a standout element, with each actress bringing strength and individuality to her role. Lisa Lu commands attention as the wise and fearless She Taijun, whose leadership and unbreakable spirit anchor the group. Ivy Ling Po shines as Mu Guiying, a determined warrior who embodies both resilience and a deep love for her family. The chemistry among the actresses and the sense of camaraderie add emotional weight to the story, making each sacrifice and battle more impactful.
Director Cheng Kang spares no effort in bringing the scale of The 14 Amazons to life, with expansive battle sequences and impressive cinematography. The climactic “human bridge” scene, where soldiers use their bodies to create a crossing over a gorge, is one of the film’s unforgettable moments, showcasing both the heroism and ingenuity of the Yang women. The film’s production values are typical of Shaw Brothers, with lush costumes, elaborate sets, and vibrant color schemes that immerse viewers in the period setting.
The 14 Amazons is a remarkable film, not only for its thrilling action but for its portrayal of courage and resilience in the face of overwhelming odds. With its strong, multi-dimensional female leads and sweeping narrative, it remains a celebrated classic in martial arts cinema, offering a powerful tribute to the legendary Yang family and the spirit of unity.
Bonus Features
- Brand new 2K restoration from the original negatives by Arrow Films
- Newly restored uncompressed Mandarin and English mono audio
- Newly translated English subtitles, plus optional hard-of-hearing subtitles for the English dub
- Brand new commentary by Jonathan Clements, author of A Brief History of China
- Interview with stuntwoman Sharon Yeung, filmed in 2004
- Interview with film historian Bede Chang, filmed in 2005
- Interview with film critic Law Kar, filmed in 2005
- Theatrical trailers
The Magic Blade (Disc 5)
The Magic Blade, directed by Chor Yuen and produced by Shaw Brothers in 1976, is a captivating fusion of swordplay, fantasy, and relentless action, solidifying its place as a classic in the wuxia genre. Starring Ti Lung as the mysterious swordsman Fu Hongxue, the film unfolds in a world of intrigue and deception, where martial arts mastery and cunning are essential to survival. Known for its atmospheric storytelling, complex characters, and exhilarating fight sequences, The Magic Blade delivers an unforgettable journey through a dark, fantastical world.
The film centers around Fu Hongxue, a brooding, loner swordsman wielding a unique weapon: the titular magic blade. With his relentless sense of honor and justice, Fu embarks on a dangerous mission to thwart the plans of the powerful and malicious kung fu master known as Mr. Yu, who schemes to control the martial world with a deadly weapon. Along the way, Fu encounters a series of assassins, enigmatic allies, and even unexpected romance, all of which reveal the complexities of loyalty, betrayal, and morality.
Ti Lung is mesmerizing as Fu Hongxue, bringing both charisma and stoic intensity to the character. Fu’s code of honor and his internal struggle make him more than just a warrior—he’s a tragic hero facing his own demons in a merciless world. Lung’s presence is magnetic, balancing vulnerability with steely determination, and his mastery in the film’s numerous fight scenes gives the character an edge that resonates throughout the story. Lo Lieh, as the insidious Mr. Yu, provides a perfect foil, exuding a ruthless ambition that contrasts sharply with Fu’s integrity.
Chor Yuen’s direction shines, creating an atmosphere of suspense and visual splendor that enhances the film’s mystical elements. Known for his creative use of elaborate sets and atmospheric lighting, Chor crafts a world that feels dreamlike yet dangerous, where every encounter holds a sense of mystery. The film’s stunning choreography is relentless, with Fu’s magic blade becoming a central spectacle in the action sequences. Each duel is meticulously crafted, with Chor’s visual style emphasizing the speed and precision that define wuxia cinema.
Beyond its action, The Magic Blade explores deeper themes of loyalty, vengeance, and the cost of power. Fu’s journey reveals a character grappling with his purpose in a world fraught with moral ambiguity. His interactions with various characters reveal a layered narrative about the burden of strength and the nature of true honor.
The Magic Blade remains a celebrated film in the wuxia canon, not only for its high-caliber action and visuals but for its exploration of what it means to wield power responsibly. With unforgettable performances, atmospheric storytelling, and spellbinding action, The Magic Blade continues to enchant martial arts fans, serving as a high point in Shaw Brothers’ storied filmography and a timeless adventure in the world of swordplay cinema.
Clans of Intrigue (Disc 5)
Clans of Intrigue, directed by Chor Yuen and produced by Shaw Brothers in 1977, is a stylish wuxia mystery that combines intense martial arts with a labyrinthine plot of deception, betrayal, and secret societies. Starring the iconic Ti Lung as the charismatic swordsman Chu Liu-hsiang, the film brings a thrilling blend of intrigue and action, showcasing Chor Yuen’s signature flair for atmosphere and visual storytelling.
The story begins with Chu Liu-hsiang, a legendary thief and skilled martial artist, being falsely accused of poisoning three clan leaders with a rare and lethal poison. Determined to clear his name, Chu embarks on a journey through a treacherous web of secrets and hidden agendas, where he uncovers the machinations of various martial arts factions. Along the way, he encounters numerous allies and adversaries, each with their own hidden motives, and slowly unravels a conspiracy that stretches deep into the heart of the martial arts world.
Ti Lung delivers a standout performance as Chu Liu-hsiang, effortlessly embodying the character’s charm, intelligence, and skill. Unlike many martial heroes, Chu relies as much on his wit as on his sword, making him a refreshing and complex protagonist. Ti Lung’s portrayal adds depth to a character constantly walking the fine line between hero and anti-hero, a quality that heightens the suspense as he navigates an ever-darkening world of deceit.
The film’s plot is intricate, with twists and turns that keep viewers guessing at every step. Chor Yuen’s direction brings a unique aesthetic, using shadowy lighting and elaborate set designs to create a mysterious atmosphere that feels both fantastical and foreboding. Each scene is meticulously framed, reflecting the psychological tension and unpredictable alliances Chu encounters on his quest for justice. The film’s pacing is steady, but it keeps the audience engaged with an unfolding mystery that balances drama with action.
The swordplay and action choreography in Clans of Intrigue are impressive, blending traditional wuxia elegance with Chor Yuen’s flair for the dramatic. The fight sequences emphasize strategy and clever maneuvering, reflecting Chu’s intelligence as a fighter and keeping the action grounded in the film’s suspenseful tone.
Clans of Intrigue is a must-see for fans of wuxia and mystery alike, merging martial arts action with a complex story of betrayal and revenge. With Ti Lung’s unforgettable performance, a captivating story, and Chor Yuen’s distinctive direction, the film stands as a classic in the Shaw Brothers' repertoire, offering a cinematic experience that captivates with both its style and substance.
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 The Magic Blade
- Newly restored uncompressed Mandarin and Cantonese mono audio for Clans of Intrigue
- Newly translated English subtitles for both films, plus optional hard-of-hearing subtitles for the English dub on The Magic Blade
- Brand new commentary on The Magic Blade by critic Samm Deighan
- Brand new commentary on Clans of Intrigue by critic James Mudge
- Alternate version of Clans of Intrigue via seamless branching, featuring four extended scenes previously censored for explicit material
- 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! Look for part three of this three-part review tomorrow!
