Cast
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Brigitte Lin
as Dung Fong Bat Bai
Jet Li
as Ling Wu Chung
Rosamund Kwan
as Yam Ying Ying
Michelle Reis
as Kiddo
Waise Lee
as Hattori Sengun
Candice Yu On-On
as Yang Shishi
Fennie Yuen Kit-Ying
as Blue Phoenix
Lau Shun
as Zen
Yen Shi-Kwan
as Yam Ngoh Hang
Chin Ka-Lok
as Sarutobi Kazuki
Cheung Kwok-Leung
as Hong Menda
Andrew Kam
as
Sam Ho Choi-Chow
as
Choi Kwok-Ping
as
Wong Wai-Shun
as
Crew
Director
- Tony Ching Siu-Tung
Writer
- Elsa Tang Bik-Yin
- Tin-suen Chan
- Tsui Hark
Producer
- Tsui Hark
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This high-octane Action/Fantasy/Adventure film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, The Legend of the Swordsman distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.
Director Tony Ching Siu-Tung brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1992, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Legend of the Swordsman took approximately 9 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $4.4 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 107 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 128 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 3 weeks before filming began.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The costume department created over 381 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 1992, when this film was released:
- The end of the Cold War was reshaping global politics.
- Digital technology was transforming the entertainment industry.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Legend of the Swordsman shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Supreme Sword, which focuses more on action than character development, The Legend of the Swordsman offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Swift Shaolin Boxer and Dream Journey 4: Biography of the Demon explore similar territory, The Legend of the Swordsman stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: June 26, 1992
- Runtime: 1h 47m
- Budget: $4,439,832
