How do you properly review any Shaw Brothers movie? It can be difficult, it takes more work to just get the names right and explain some of the plotting, but you approach them like all other movies. It’s all about discussing the good, the bad, and everything in between, and avoiding any particular movies because they might be a bit tricky to write about just does a disservice to some potentially great movies. And discussing movies is often about more than just what ends up on the screen anyway.
When it comes to the Shaw Brothers movies, and a lot of non-American action films from the ‘60s, ‘70s, and ‘80s, we are in a bit of a golden time for fans. Much like the slasher movies from decades ago, it seems as if there isn’t a month that goes by without some previously-rare gem receiving excellent treatment on shiny disc from some boutique blu-ray label. Whether that treatment is deserved or not, well, that is a matter of personal preference. But if you haven’t yet picked up both of the Shawscope collections from Arrow Video then you should really rectify that oversight.
King Boxer is a typical tale of a young man (Chih-Hao, played by Lo Lieh) who is sent by his master to another school, a place where he will learn the deadly Iron Palm technique. That is all well and good, but there is a nearby rival school, of course, with an evil master at the helm. People get caught up amidst the feuding and fighting, and Chih-Hao becomes a target. He may even be rendered powerless if his hands are beaten to a pulp. Which would make it easier for the baddies to win the upcoming martial arts tournament.
This is really enjoyable stuff, and some may consider it a bit of a genre classic (an opinion I wouldn’t waste too much energy debating). Director Chung Chang-Wha, who also co-wrote the screenplay with Chiang Yang, paces everything perfectly, shoots the action well, and takes viewers on a fun journey that observes numerous expected treats and tropes.
Lo Lieh is a decent lead, believably strong, stoic, and capable, and his performance is boosted by a musical sting leading in to his special super-powered Iron Palm technique (one that will be familiar to fans of the Kill Bill movies, even if they have yet to see this). Tien Feng and Tung Lam are two of the villains, and both are a lot of fun, but they head up an enjoyably busy supporting cast of disposable scoundrels. The fact that there’s also a decent bit of screentime for Wang Ping is also a big plus, despite the fact that she doesn’t ever get to be in the heart of any action sequences.
There are other films in this style that I prefer, either due to the showcasing of the “Venoms” or some extra fantastical elements that allow them to be even more fun, but this is definitely up there with the cream of the crop. Part of me already wants to rewatch it, but I know there are so many other Shaw Brothers movies I have yet to get to.
8/10
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