Cast
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Gordon Liu Chia-Hui
as Hung Jun-kit
Adam Cheng Siu-Chow
as Chao Fung-wu
Idy Chan Yuk-Lin
as Yan-ling
Johnny Wang Lung-Wei
as Qing Lord
Brian Baek Hwang-gi
as Thug Monk Ming
Chan Shen
as
Ching Li
as Yue Lam
Chiang Chen
as
Cheung Wing-Cheung
as Man in Opening Scene
Han Chiang
as Master Liu
Liang Chiang
as
Ching Miao
as Wu Tang Chief Wo-Tao
Choi Kwok-Keung
as Monk
Sung-Hao Hsu
as
Shu-Kuang Huang
as
Crew
Director
- Gordon Liu Chia-Hui
Writer
- Huang Pa-Ching
Producer
- Lau Kar-Leung
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This high-octane Action film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, Shaolin and Wu Tang distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.
Director Gordon Liu Chia-Hui 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 1983, 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 Shaolin and Wu Tang took approximately 23 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $1.2 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 87 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 125 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 3 months to complete.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 8 weeks before filming began.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1983, when this film was released:
- Economic policies were shifting toward deregulation in many Western countries.
- The Cold War was entering its final phase.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Shaolin and Wu Tang shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Kill Bill: Vol. 1, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Shaolin and Wu Tang subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Hero and Gladiator explore similar territory, Shaolin and Wu Tang stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: July 2, 1983
- Runtime: 1h 27m
- Budget: $1,181,152
