Cast
View All
Chi Kuan-Chun
as Ta Kung
Bryan Leung
as Shang King
Cliff Ching Ching
as Chang Yang / Wu Tak
Mang Fei
as Student of old Drunken Master
Yu Tien-Lung
as Old Drunken Master
Tsung Hua
as Policeman
Kuk Wang
as Hu Lin, head monk
Wang Pao-yu
as Hsiao Ying
Wang Chen
as Girl chased into the temple
Ma Chang
as One of Chang Yang's thugs
Lee Chiu
as One of Chang Yang's thugs
Wu Te-Shan
as Monk
Hsueh Chang-Wen
as Monk
Fang Fang
as Shang King's wife
Chen Chen
as Troublemaker at temple
Crew
Director
- Lee Chiu
Writer
- Lam Lam
Producer
- Wong Oi-Ying
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This high-octane Action/Comedy film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, Ways of Kung Fu distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.
Director Lee Chiu 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 1978, 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 Ways of Kung Fu took approximately 15 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 95 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 151 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The screenplay went through 9 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 1978, when this film was released:
- Economic recession and oil crises were affecting global economies.
- Disco music dominated popular culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Ways of Kung Fu shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Second Life, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Ways of Kung Fu subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Ninja and Opium and the Kung Fu Master explore similar territory, Ways of Kung Fu stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
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: November 26, 1978
- Runtime: 1h 35m
Where to Watch
