Revenge of the Kung Fu Master

Starring:Donnie Yen
Studio: Tai Seng
Product Type: DVD

Average customer rating:

THE Shaolin Temple movie
Gordon Liu Pre-Kill Bill 1+2
AKA Master Killer
One of the best kung fu movies I've seen...

The 36th Chamber of Shaolin
Starring: Gordon Liu , and Lo Lieh
Director: Lau Kar Leung
Manufacturer: Weinstein Company
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Action & Adventure | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Art House & International | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Foreign & International | Stores | DVD | Video

DVDs Under $14.99 | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

King Boxer (aka 'Five Fingers Of Death')
The One-Armed Swordsman
My Young Auntie
Hard Boiled (Two-Disc Ultimate Edition)
Above the Law

ASIN: B000MM0LEG
Release Date: 2007-06-19

Customer Reviews:

THE Shaolin Temple movie.......2007-06-27

Gordon Liu (also known as Lau Kar Fai) stars as a young man who's friends and family have been killed by the new government. He wakes up at the Shaolin Temple, a place he has only heard about a couple of times. When he realizes he is at the best place possible to learn kung fu, he begs and begs to learn so that he can revenge his family. He does finally get taught, but has to start with the basics. Every part of his body must become stronger before he can learn how to fight. After he finishes the first stages of training in record time, he is now highly respected and moves onto learning actual fighting styles. He breezes through this and becomes a great fighter in only 5 years or so. This is not one of those movies that has 1 or 2 training sequences. Gordon is shown in at least 13 of the chambers and half of the movie is spent at Shaolin. So after he has become a master fighter, he is given a high honor and told that he can become second in charge of any of the 35 chambers. A senior monk played by the great Lee Hoi San objects to this and says that he can't have this honor unless Gordon defeats him in a weapons duel. Lee Hoi San does not play a villain, but he does not think that Gordon is a good enough fighter to receive so much praise. His plan works better than he could have ever imagined. He ends up helping Gordon improve as a fighter and as a person. Gordon is told he can leave Shaolin now, and he goes to take revenge on the evil General who killed his family.

One thing that sets this movie apart is that it tries to be a real movie, and it succeeds. Watching Gordon grow up into a man is remarkable to see. The commentators didn't notice, but a lot of the stuff in this movie is very real. When Gordon has to use the pole with the wieght on the end to hit the bell over and over again, that is a real weight on the end of the pole! Gordon talks in the interview (included on this disc) about how the sabres that Lo Lieh uses in the final fight are real, and it just makes the movie that much better. Dont expect your average tale of revenge. I was touched deeply when I first saw this and there are not many kung fu movies that have as much meaning and feeling.

Rating- 5/5

Picture quality is remastered very well. It does get a bit darker and lighter in some scenes, but other than slight print damage once or twice, the picture quality is perfect. The Mandarin, Cantonese and English tracks all sound excellent. In fact, I have never heard the English dub sound this good. The subtitles should have been written better, and the English dub is actually a better translation. They are not horribly written, but could have been a lot better. I am not complaining though since this is the only fault on the DVD.

Special features include a great commentary from The RZA and this Andy Klein guy who does not know very much about the genre. Luckily RZA is there to help him point out actors like Lau Kar Wing, Wilson Tong and Hsiao Hou. I found the commmentary enjoyable. RZA talks about his experiences with this movie, and he is definitely a 36th Chamber expert. And I found it pretty funny that he seems to think Gordon Liu is a monk in real life.

The 17 minute interview with Gordon Liu is very interesting. He talks about many things such as training day and night and how great of an honor it was to work with a megastar like Lo Lieh. Gordon skips over the years like people should know what he is talking about, but just in case you don't, I will fill you in. In 1974 Lau Kar Leung was Chang Cheh's top action director and Gordon Liu was cast as a villain alongside Johnny Wang Lung Wei and Leung Kar Yan in movies like '7 Man Army'. When Lau Kar Leung split up with Chang Cheh he started directing his own movies for the Shaw Brothers, starting with 'Spiritual Boxer'. In his next movie 'Challenge of the Masters', Lau Kar Leung cast his younger adopted brother Gordon Liu as the lead. This is what led to Gordon becoming the star of 'The 36th Chamber of Shaolin', the greatest Shaolin Temple movie ever made.

There is a 17 minute documentary on Shaolin that is basically another 17 minutes of awesome info from Gordon Liu.

The 8 minute interview with film critic/scholars Andy Klein and David Shute is a very good description of how great of a movie this is.

The RZA gets a 10 minute interview where he talks about where he first started watching these movies and also gives his thoughts on the Shaw Brothers and explains why the Master Killer in his rap group took that name.

The trailers are the best special feature. The trailer for 'Shaolin Mantis' is very unique. Instead of showing clips from the movie, the actors introduce what kind of kung fu styles are going to be used (be sure to look for Lily Li!). Lau Kar Leung is the director of 'Shaolin Mantis' and doesn't even have a role in the movie, but he gets to show off his ultra awesome kung fu skills quite a bit in the trailer. I think I have watched this trailer about 50 times, and I will eventually master that Shadow style!

Also included are ORIGINAL trailers for 'The 36th Chamber', 'Return to the 36th Chamber', 'Disciples of the 36th Chamber', '8 Diagram Pole Fighter', 'My Young Auntie', 'One Armed Swordsman', 'Infernal Affairs 3' and the original Master Killer US TV commercial.

The last special feature is a gallery of original movie posters and movie stills.

Gordon Liu Pre-Kill Bill 1+2.......2007-06-21

Here he is in his most important role EVER!!!! OK well that's a matter of opinion but it is in this movie that gordon Liu cements his position in the martial arts movie lexicon by totally nailing this role. He would go on to play a mon many times after this but this is the best of those movies, hands down. For years it's only been available in the dubbed version that many of us probalby saw many years ago. but this beautifully restored and fully remastered version should be a part of every martial arts fans movie collection.

AKA Master Killer.......2007-06-21

This is an excellent martial arts classic. It is a must see flick. Typical of martial arts films, there is a training period, and the training this young monk endures is quite interesting and entertaining (don't want to give anything away).

It is one of the few martial arts films I can watch over and over. There are some moderately humorous parts that keep things moving along (not as funny as Jackie Chan, but still some fun).

If you haven't seen this one, you should.

One of the best kung fu movies I've seen..........2007-06-19

What can I say about this movie that hasn't been said before? A classic. Yes. Influential? Absolutely. Entertaining? Most definitely. This movie is as good a place to start as any if you're interested in the Kung Fu cinema. And if you're already into Kung Fu, you've probably heard of this in the least, and I can't imagine why you haven't seen it. As to this release, really the best I've seen. The picture and sound are great, and the language option is nice. Most of the features are nice as well. Though I don't know how useful the Wu-tang clan video was. Still...a worthy DVD to a great movie.

Average customer rating:

Best Martial Arts Film Ever
Disappointed...
Not The Best Martial Arts Movie
East meets West, and West comes off best.
Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon

Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon
Starring: Chang Chen , Chow Yun-Fat , Chang Cheng , Cheng Pei-Pei , and Sihung Lung
Director: Ang Lee
Manufacturer: Sony Pictures
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Action & Adventure | Genres | DVD | Video

Romantic Adventure | Action & Adventure | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Art House & International | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Foreign & International | Stores | DVD | Video

General | Indie & Art House | Stores | DVD | Video

DVDs Under $7.49 | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video

( C ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

Hero
House of Flying Daggers
Iron Monkey
Memoirs of a Geisha (Widescreen Two-Disc Special Edition)
The Last Samurai (Two-Disc Special Edition)

ASIN: B00003CXR4
Release Date: 2001-06-05

Amazon.com essential video

Hong Kong wuxia films, or martial arts fantasies, traditionally squeeze poor acting, slapstick humor, and silly story lines between elaborate fight scenes in which characters can literally fly. Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon has no shortage of breathtaking battles, but it also has the dramatic soul of a Greek tragedy and the sweep of an epic romance. This is the work of director Ang Lee, who fell in love with movies while watching wuxia films as a youngster and made Crouching Tiger as a tribute to the form. To elevate the genre above its B-movie roots and broaden its appeal, Lee did two important things. First, he assembled an all-star lineup of talent, joining the famous Asian actors Chow Yun-fat and Michelle Yeoh with the striking, charismatic newcomer Zhang Ziyi. Behind the scenes, Lee called upon cinematographer Peter Pau (The Killer, The Bride with White Hair) and legendary fight choreographer Yuen Wo-ping, best known outside Asia for his work on The Matrix. Second, in adapting the story from a Chinese pulp-fiction novel written by Wang Du Lu, Lee focused not on the pursuit of a legendary sword known as "The Green Destiny," but instead on the struggles of his female leads against social obligation. In his hands, the requisite fight scenes become another means of expressing the individual spirits of his characters and their conflicts with society and each other.

The filming required an immense effort from all involved. Chow and Yeoh had to learn to speak Mandarin, which Lee insisted on using instead of Cantonese to achieve a more classic, lyrical feel. The astonishing battles between Jen (Zhang) and Yu Shu Lien (Yeoh) on the rooftops and Jen and Li Mu Bai (Chow) atop the branches of bamboo trees required weeks of excruciating wire and harness work (which in turn required meticulous "digital wire removal"). But the result is a seamless blend of action, romance, and social commentary in a populist film that, like its young star Zhang, soars with balletic grace and dignity. --Eugene Wei

Description

An epic set against the breathtaking landscapes of ancient China, Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, combines the exhilarating martial arts choreography by Yuen Wo-Pind (The Matrix) with the sensitivity and classical storytelling of an Ang Lee film. The result is something truly unexpected: romantic, emotionally powerful entertainment.

Customer Reviews:

Best Martial Arts Film Ever.......2007-06-22

Everything has already been said about this film, so I'll put only a short review here.

Why did I use the superlative in the title? Because it seems to be true for me. (The second place belongs to House of Flying Daggers [Region 99].) The story line is not very strong, but much better than you may see in this genre. The romantic threads do not make it too schmaltzy, and the visual design is simply excellent.

Disappointed..........2007-05-28

Although I enjoyed Michelle Yeoh and Zhang Ziyi (as always), I didn't enjoy this movie hardly at all. I couldn't believe this was the movie that got such rave reviews and was Oscar nominated etc. I don't say that foolishly, stating that I dislike the movie when really I dislike the genre. That's not it. I just much prefer films like "House of the Flying Daggers" and "Hero" to this one.

Not The Best Martial Arts Movie.......2007-04-05

the cinemotography is pretty good i this movie, but the plot was raw. This movie was okay.

East meets West, and West comes off best. .......2007-02-16

The martial arts film traditionally has attained its own unique niche in the domain of film. Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon is a Chinese-language film that works within the parameters of the old cliches of this niche, but changes just enough to make it stand out and create an appeal that reaches far beyond the limited circle of the average martial art film enthusiast. It doesn't lack the action that one might expect from the typical film in this genre, but it adds something new: the soul of tragedy and romance.

An adaption of a Chinese pulp-fiction novel, the story concerns two secret lovers (the male Li Mu Bai and female Yu Shu Lien) who are warriors on a quest to recapture a legendary sword, the Green Destiny, which has been stolen by a masked bandit. The thief turns out to be the beautiful princess Jen Yu, who is in the middle of trying to avoid an arranged marriage, because she is secretly in love with the desert bandit Lo, whom she grew to love after being abducted in the wilderness. Behind the intrigue and romance of these two forbidden loves, lies the dark cloud of mastermind Jade Fox, the evil woman responsible for the deaths of Mu Bai's former master and of Shu Lien's fiance. This sets the stage for a poignant drama, warm romance, and breath-taking action.

Despite being a martial arts film, the movie breaks the traditional Eastern mould by incorporating romantic elements one would expect from Hollywood. It has well been said that stylistically, it is "a blend of Eastern action and Western psychological drama." I think this assessment is correct, that while on the one hand the film is clearly inspired by martial-arts mysticism and action of the East, underneath the window dressing of the foreign aspects of the film lies the romanticism and drama that one is accustomed to from the West. By catering to what appeals to the modern Western mindset and incorporating subtle criticisms of traditional Chinese culture, it's not surprising that the film was somewhat of a flop in Asia, and that its concessions to contemporary themes of love and feelings made it a breakthrough success in the West. Stephen Greydanus puts it well by remarking: "Ang Lee has here crafted a masterful synthesis of various forms of Chinese mythology and Taoist philosophy that brings a broader perspective to its subject matter than many Asian films including some aspects of more typically Western sensibilities and ideals and, in the end, embraces a gently romantic humanism that is more life-affirming than the esoteric way of detachment and denial characteristic of Eastern thought." Certainly there are allusions to Taoistic mysticism, but the Taoism is in the end rejected in favor of realism and romanticism - which perhaps explains why the movie worked for Western viewers and not for Eastern ones.

The movie has also been the subject of scathing criticism for other reasons, not least from conservative Christian quarters, where offense was taken primarily to the implicit endorsement of extra-marital sexual relations, and the rebellious attitude of Jen toward her parents and her arranged marriage. For the most part, I share this concern, and it's good to be reminded of it. Watching too many movies which advocate the moral laxity of modern culture can dull sensitivity on this point, and unfortunately there aren't enough films on the other extreme to act as correctives.

But perhaps most discussion has been about the ambiguous conclusion (*spoiler warning*), where Jen leaps into the unknown. Lo has just expressed the wish is "to be in the desert, together [with you] again" and then Jen jumps off the cliff into the mist of uncertainty. If it's not suicide, what is it? And what happens next? We don't know. Some have optimistically seen this as a Christological leap of faith and sacrifice with the hope of resurrection, but it seems to me that interpreting this as a message of atonement and resurrection is being too generous and overly charitable. Perhaps the point is that we don't know the ending, and that the movie can only leave it up to us to decide for ourselves. And isn't this typical for a Western culture without absolutes? Maybe this is a reflection of our post-modern culture more than anything. Not only does contemporary culture delight in being morally ambiguous, but as a result it also has an ambiguous eschatology. The best that modern Western film can offer is a nebulous promise of a hope for the future. In other words, our world today doesn't really know much about the afterlife, so it can't really tell us much about it, except offer paradoxes and try to make us come up with our own happy endings. The best promise it can give is a blend of hopeless romanticism and eastern mysticism, where suicide is romanticized as an genuine escape and a leap into another world where perhaps dreams might just come true.

Despite being critical of some of these underlying themes and moral ambiguity, I have to admit that Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon is stimulating in raising these questions, in a way that few popular films today do. It remains a fascinating film in what it says about a clash of cultures, and in what it says about our time. The discerning viewer is sure to find some measure of profit and entertainment from this highly regarded and award-winning film. - GODLY GADFLY

Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.......2007-02-12

I watched the TV programs first. I understand it must have been difficult to make the long story to short. But the movie didn't reflect the original plot. Since I like Michelle Yoe and Zhan Ziyi, I bought the movie. But I didn't really enjoy it. I couldn't understand the ending, either. I wonder why it got the awrad. Anyway, I recommend "Hero" if you like to enjoy fantazy kun fu movies.

Average customer rating:

Very Entertaining, Great fight scenes
Probably the best martial arts movie ever
Really Good!
The Sequel to Fearless?
Great Fighting! Story Resembles Chinese Connection...

Fist of Legend
Starring: Jet Li , Siu-hou Chin , Ada Choi , Shinobu Nakayama , and Yasuaki Kurata
Director: Gordon Chan
Manufacturer: Dimension
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Action & Adventure | Genres | DVD | Video

4-for-3 All DVDs | 4-for-3 DVD | Stores | DVD | Video

DVDs Under $7.49 | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video

( F ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

Once Upon a Time in China Trilogy
Twin Warriors
Jet Li's The Enforcer
The Legend
The Legend of Drunken Master

ASIN: B00003W8NS
Release Date: 2000-02-15

Amazon.com

Like compatriot Jackie Chan, martial arts champion Jet Li has long been revered in his native country and enjoys a cult following in the States among aficionados of Hong Kong cinema. After two decades, it took his villainous turn in Lethal Weapon 4 to put him on the Hollywood map, paving the way for the release of his earlier films. Fist of Legend is a 1994 production and a remake of The Chinese Connection (also known as Fists of Fury, which starred the greatest martial arts legend of them all, Bruce Lee). This film is set in 1937, when Shanghai was occupied by the Japanese and racial tensions were high. Li stars as Chen Zhen, who returns to Shanghai to avenge the death of his master, whom he learns was poisoned. His popular freestyle fighting technique and Japanese girlfriend do not endear him to his former friend, now his master's successor at the martial arts school. If Jackie Chan is inspired by Buster Keaton, Li seems to be channeling Steve McQueen. He speaks softly and carries a big kick. And like Steven Seagal, even when he is under siege by a horde of attackers, no one can lay a finger on this guy. The dialogue and dubbing are atrocious, but the fight sequences are incredible (they were choreographed by Yuen Woo-ping, who lent his expertise to The Matrix). Perhaps most memorable is a bout between Chen and his girlfriend's uncle during which the combatants wear blindfolds. This is essential viewing for martial arts buffs and Li's growing legion of fans. --Donald Liebenson

Description

International superstar Jet Li (LETHAL WEAPON 4, BLACK MASK) explodes on the screen in this thrilling martial arts action story about courage, honor ... and revenge! When Chen (Li) discovers that his beloved teacher and mentor has been murdered, he swears to avenge his death! Then, with an unwavering commitment to vengeance, Chen puts everything on the line to settle the score! The must-see modern remake of a Bruce Lee classic, FIST OF LEGEND packs hard-hitting excitement and incredible hand-to-hand combat into one unstoppable adrenaline rush!

Customer Reviews:

Very Entertaining, Great fight scenes.......2007-06-05

This movie if for the martial arts fan. My family and friends watched this movie and laughed that the English dubbed voices, however when the fight scenes came up they were glued to their seats.... IF you can get passed the dubbed voices, it is a great martial arts movie...

Probably the best martial arts movie ever.......2007-04-21

While many will point to classics such as The Five Deadly Venoms and Drunken Master as the greatest of the greats, Fist of Legend puts them to shame. Jet Li portrays Chen Zhen, a Chinese student studying abroad in Japan during the turbulent years leading up to the second world war. The Japanese, looking to humiliate the Chinese by defeating their best martial artists, challenge and defeat his master Huo Yuen Jia (also played by Jet Li in Fearless).

He returns to China to defend the honor of his school, mixing his kung fu with martial arts he learned while seeing the world. He deals with nationalism, racism, traitorous countrymen, honorable foes and a military/industrial complex which conspires to conquer and exploit his nation. Don't miss this one!

Really Good!.......2007-03-15

Hard to believe, but an english dub that is good! Excellent movie. Very realistic kung fu, no loud, fake sound effects. Good story. My new favorite!

The Sequel to Fearless?.......2007-01-21

I'm sure some people have made the connection already but I think I'd just point it out now and say that Fist of Legend is pretty much a fictitious sequel to the turn of events that occur in Fearless, the story about Huo Yuanjia and how his death turned up as a explosive dilemma in Chinese culture during that time and this movie runs about the same era... if not the SAME story.

Where I'm getting at is that the story of Fist of Legend is that a martial arts student, Chen Zen, of the Jingwu Federation finds out their master has been killed in a comptetition... Jingwu was founded by Huo Yuanjia himself and when Chen Zen fights the Japanese man who fought supposedly fought Chen's master, he even says he'll fight the Sensei with the Huo fist, his master's fist. HUO YUANJIA's style.

There are some strange connections that lead up by connecting the two movies but if you make the distinctions clear enough to understand, they do match up, which was pretty neat. Other evidence that follows up that Fist of Legend is a presumable sequel is when Chen Zen goes to pay respects to his dead master, there at the temple is the picture of Huo Yuanjia. Seriously.

Alright aside from tid-bitting self-produced facts and such, Fist of Legend is a movie that's timeless to Jet-Li's other performances. I only wish I could find an english subtitled version of this movie or something because the dubbing does NOT serve it justice! I won't knock its rating down just for dubbing, that'd be a shame to do because everything else about the movie is fantastic. Action sequencing is profoundly neat, that mediocre type of filming chinese movies seem to use for a broad majority of their films is actually quite good in this one, not quality, but by execution and performances really get you in to know each character and who they stand as.

I can't think of a reason why anyone wouldn't get this movie if they're a big kung fu movie buff, action movie lover or Jet-Li fanatic, or someone who just wants some unique exposure to these realms. Fist of Legend is definitely a reamarkable piece of work and entertainment.

Great Fighting! Story Resembles Chinese Connection..........2007-01-08

This is another twist on the Janpanese versus Chinese ongoing feud movie, with the Japanese being the bad guys. Usually these scripts start with the foremost Master being killed and their finding there was foul play in the death. So does this movie.

The initial part of the plot is to find the killer. However pride and envy become the downfall of the new Master who is jealous of Chen (Jet's character), the former Master's best student.

Although I LOVE Bruce Li's version of this story, the fight scenes were better in THIS one - namely because there were fighters of equal magnitude to Jet all throughout the movie.

Most memorable in this movie is the blindfolded battle between Chen and his Japanese girlfriend's uncle...and how each comment on their fighting abilities. Jet learns from this Japanese Master. Their interplay was quite amusing...and you just marveled at each's skill.

Jet's posture early in the movie sets the serious tone of his character. The really big bad guy shows up face early on in the movie and you know the battle will be with this killer, the General, in the end. He even kills his own people.

The movie is worthwhile to see the skill of the excellent fighters involved and the multiple styles that are showcased.

The final fight scene is a bit long...but you anticipate that defeating the General would not be an easy task. If you are a Jet Li fan, this is one deserves to be in your collection.

Shaolin Master Killer (Widescreen Edition)

Average customer rating:

Still a classic
GORDON LIU=A LEGEND IS BORN
This is the good Master Killer
Must see for all martial arts lovers
classic '36th Chamber Of Shaolin'

Shaolin Master Killer (Widescreen Edition)
Starring: Chia Hui Liu , Lieh Lo , Chia Yung Liu , Norman Chu , and Yang Yu (II)
Director: Chia-Liang Liu
Manufacturer: Crash Cinema Media
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Action & Adventure | Genres | DVD | Video

Adventure | Kids & Family | Genres | DVD | Video

DVDs Under $7.49 | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video

( S ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video

Five Deadly Venoms
7 Grand Masters
Shaolin Wu Tang
Fist of the White Lotus
36th Chamber

ASIN: 6305511705
Release Date: 2000-02-08

Amazon.com

A pure old-school martial arts movie, beloved by aficionados, that also appeals to nonfans simply as a rousing action film. The often-imitated fact-based plot (see The Karate Kid) centers upon the rigorous training process undergone in the mid-19th century by the anti-Manchu Chinese patriot San Te (Gordon Liu). It's depicted as a grueling voyage into the unknown. Cast out of his home village when he stands up to the cruel warlord (Lo Lieh) who slaughtered his parents, the refugee seeks out the martial monks of the Shaolin Temple, who steer him through a torturous series of "chambers"--horrendous ordeals designed to build strength and agility--before he's even allowed to study boxing or swordfighting. Finally he defeats a rival by inventing a brand-new weapon, the three-section chain-linked staff. But innovation can be carried only so far; when San Te suggests opening a "36th chamber" in the temple that would teach Shaolin techniques to the populace at large (so that they can fight the nasty Manchus) he is drummed out of the corps. Naturally he returns to his home village, slaughters the baddies, and prepares to open China's first public Shaolin-style kung fu school. Many of the pupils San Te recruits in the final reel became legendary martial artists in their own right, the "Fathers of the Church" of the Chinese kung fu tradition. This is strong action entertainment with real historical resonance. --David Chute

Customer Reviews:

Still a classic.......2007-04-02

No matter how many years pass; still one of the best kung fu flicks ever made!

GORDON LIU=A LEGEND IS BORN.......2006-05-28

this movie no doubt is arguably the greatest of all-time you can consider it the martial arts version of the godfather because its mainly an initiation and training then the last 20+ minutes or so is where all the fun and action begins. this movie is approximately 1 hr 55 mins long. for the 1st 25 to 30 mins you see gordon liu with hair (which is pretty odd to see) and his friends in a school and the manchus taking over. you see lau kar wing trying to plot to kill the head manchu general but lo lieh anticipated it and they have a battle with their weapons which lau kar wing is killed at the hands of lo lieh. then later gordon liu and his friend try to escape to shaolin but unfortunately for his friend he dies. my faovrite chambers were the waterbucket chambers, reflex chamber, and the fighting chamber. best fight was gordon liu vs. great wing chun master lee hoi sang about 100 times. this movie also stars wong yu, norman tsui siu keung, wilson tong (who had a sizeable role), henry yu yung (who bares a resemblence to jason pai piao), and late great simon yuen siu tien. this movie is widescreen 2:35.1 and the sound you know about that i have to turn up 3 quarters of the way to hear it. but pick this up and find a better trasfer if you can.

This is the good Master Killer.......2006-05-18

I've been trying to get my hands on this movie for a long time. My teacher told me that he saw it 23 years ago and loved the training scenes. I didn't know which Master Killer it was though so I ended up buying "36 Chambers", "The Master Killer Trilogy", and "Return to 36 Chambers" before finally getting it right. IT WAS WORTH IT.

The quality is surprisingly good, Chia Hui Liu is at his best, and the storyline isn't the typical revenge story you've seen a thousand times (well not entirely anyway).

What I love about this movie is that it shows the protagonist overcoming real mental and physical obstacles along the martial way with great dedication and patience thus bettering himself and contributing to the art. Fantastic.

Must see for all martial arts lovers.......2006-04-10

Firstly, this is the "36th Chamber of Shaolin", now for the rest.

There is something noble about fighting with bare hands or with olden day weapons (like the sword, spear, bow and arrow etc.). It is that the actual human spirit is involved in their mastery (as opposed to children sporting a gun in a threatening way). The movie talks about this human endeavour, how discipline can take man to higher realms of self mastery.

Firstly it is clear that the mind is most important for martial arts (if you see the old man pushing the hero of the movie from many meters away). Secondly, the movie talks about bringing archaic knowledge to all sections of society for its enrichment, like starting a 36th Chamber.

I watched this movie in my school when I was in my 8th or 9th standard. There was an aura of greatness in the protagonist which I never forgot. I still see greatness in the movie, I would want to watch it many times. It reminds me that human endeavour and discipline would make us great men, nobility and faith would make us Shaolins, or Devas (gods) as my upringing would have me to believe.

classic '36th Chamber Of Shaolin'.......2006-03-28

amazing film, much less humor than your average kung fu flick. the film has brilliant scenes of physical strength when San Te is in training and excellent fight scenes towards the end. also much deeper story.

i definetly recomend this film (one of the best in the genre), but maybe not this version.
i myself got the vhs version, and from what i can tell from these reviews, its as good, if not better than the quality of this dvd.

Average customer rating:

Appalling
I WILL GO AHEAD AND REVIEW THIS DVD IN DETAIL, THE ONE THAT SAYS 36TH CHAMBER BUT IS REALLY THE RETURN)
should have read the reviews before buying
poor copy
Defective, may be Pirated and misleading Title

36th Chamber
Starring: John Cheung , Liu Chia-hui , and Gordon Lau
Director: Liu Chia-Liang , and Lau Kar-Leung
Manufacturer: Beverly Wilshire
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Action & Adventure | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Documentary | Genres | DVD | Video

DVDs Under $7.49 | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video

All Deals | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video

Five Deadly Venoms
Shaolin Wu Tang
Shaolin Master Killer (Widescreen Edition)
7 Grand Masters
Martial Arts: Master Killer Collection

ASIN: B00005MM76
Release Date: 2000-11-14

Customer Reviews:

Appalling.......2006-12-08

I waited to receive this copy from the US,and when I checked it out it was very bad quality.Thick of the worst video you have,and I think you can understand.I certainly won't be buying anything off this studio again.I do recommend dvds from Red Sun,Hong Kong Legends and Vengeance Video are ok.
The film is a masterpiece of classic kung fu,but the quality is dire.I hope Red Sun release it.

I WILL GO AHEAD AND REVIEW THIS DVD IN DETAIL, THE ONE THAT SAYS 36TH CHAMBER BUT IS REALLY THE RETURN).......2006-03-14

So, the only way that I can suggest to get this movie, is as long as you don't spend more than ten dollars, it's a good buy.

THIS IS NOT THE 36TH CHAMBER BUT RATHER THE RETURN TO THE 36TH CHAMBER.

Now that I have that clear I wanted to agree with past reviews that the picture quality is pretty bad, but this dvd was the first time I saw movie and it instantly became my favorite movie ever(at least favorite final fight scene)

And the dvd is not lying in saying it is the full uncut version.

Now if you really like this movie like me I would refer you to look for the red sun version. It has the SB logo on it and it says it is part of the shaolin collection. Also it is called return of the master killer. This dvd has absolutely crystal clear picture, dual languages, and subs, though the subs are missing a few lines that were not translated.

So if you can find this version cheap, then get it, but for a couple more bucks you can get the ultimate version that I have, WHICH IS EITHER ALL REGION OR REGION1, I don't have it in front of me.

So

should have read the reviews before buying.......2005-11-30

Just received the DVD and watched the opening scenes. That was enough for me. First off, I blame myself for thinking the "36th Chamber" was the original classic "Master Killer." Simply put, the video quality is totally unacceptable. Its the same or worse than recording at the slowest speed on a VCR.

poor copy.......2005-08-03

I have two reviews for this movie. the first is the film itself and the second is on the actually copy.

This movie is a great Kung fu classic. The title I am more familiar with is "Return to the 36th chamber" aka "Return of the Master Killer"
36 chambers usually refers to the first one. Aka "the master killer of Shaolin. or just "master killer"
That being said I do really like this movie and feel that everyone should own it... just not this copy.

Now for the copy being sold here...
the image is so poor it is difficult to watch. it is very grainy the color is off and the cropping is horrible.
My recomedation for anyone really into classic kung fu movies is to pick up a region free player and buy the Hong Kong remastered versions by Celestial released by Intercontinental Video Limited
or Deltamac

Defective, may be Pirated and misleading Title.......2005-06-05

First of all the DVD inside is not the famous "36th Chamber of Shaolin". It is "Return to the 36th Chamber", sequel to the original movie.

The Video quality is so poor that I think it is a pirated copy.

I cannot believe Amazon can sell such item.

Average customer rating:

Red Sun version is the way to go.
36TH whaaat

Return of Master Killer
Starring: Liu Chia Hui , and Wang Lung Wei
Manufacturer: Red Sun
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Action & Adventure | Genres | DVD | Video

DVDs Under $14.99 | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video

( R ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

Shaolin Master Killer (Widescreen Edition)
Fist of the White Lotus
Shaolin Challenges Ninja
7 Grand Masters
Five Deadly Venoms

ASIN: B000C0PL4S
Release Date: 2007-02-07

Product Description

When a new dye factory run by the Manchu powers opens in a busy town, the former peace and calm is shattered. The Manchus take over the local rivals and use their cruel dominance to squeeze yet more work out of the locals. After a strike by these workers results in their beating by the hired lackies, one of their friends is persuaded to intervene. This con-artist decides to impersonate legendary Shaolin monk San-Te and scare the oppressors with a series of misleading tricks designed to give the impression of kung-fu excellence. The hoax works once, but is then exposed by one of the Manchus top fighters who has been called in to handle the situation. The dye factory workers are now in a worse position than before and are left nursing their wounds after this severe humiliation. Enraged by how helpless he feels, the exposed impersonator decides to go to the Shaolin temple to try an emulate the real San-Te. Once again using his deceptive skills to get into the temple, the eager student observes the rigurous training that all of the new fighters go through. However, when he is exposed by the head monks and is therefore required to plead his case, he is put to work within the temple to make up for his deceit. Little does he realise that this seemingly unimportant manual work is in fact developing him into a formidable fighter.

Customer Reviews:

Red Sun version is the way to go. .......2006-10-22

Tha last reviewer wants to know what the difference between these are and I would be glad to go over them.

Shaolin Master Killer AKA 36th Chamber-this is the one. Gordon Liu goes to learn kung fu at the Shaolin Temple, comes back, takes revenge.

Return of Master Killer AKA Return to the 36th Chamber(beware, there is a bad bootleg floating around that says 36th chamber on the cover but is really Return to the 36th chamber. That DVD case actually has pictures from Return Of MK on it). This movie is just as good as the first. It is a comedy. Instead of playing San Te, he goes to learn from San Te. The final fight is about 20 minutes long and is one of the best in cinema history.

Disciples of Master Killer AKA Disciples of the 36th Chamber-Gordon does play San Te in this though he is not the main character. Hsiao Ho plays Fong Sai Yuk and this movie also co stars Jason Paio, Li-Li-Li, and Lau Kar Leung who is the director for all 3 films.

Also the Red Sun versions of these 3 movies are completely uncut, have CRYSTAL CLEAR picture, are letterboxed, and have dual language tracks so you can watch it in it's original language. Some people call these boot legs but the picture quality and sound on these 3 movies by Red Sun is absolutely second to none. Some other flawless releases from Red Sun are 2 Champions of Shaolin, Ninja in the Dragon's Den, 7 Grandmasters, the entire Lone Wolf and Cub Series, Dirty Ho, Shaolin Challenges Ninja, and Fists of the White Lotus.

I hope this review was helpful to you.

36TH whaaat.......2006-08-19

I ordered 36th Chanmber and Return of the Master Killer. I recieved 2 movies with different covers and write ups thinking it was part one and two but they were both the same movie. nobody can tell me the difference in the title for part one and two. Other than that buy the one from this seller, real good quality vs the other with was horribly boot-legged.

Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (UMD Mini For PSP)

Average customer rating:

Awesome Movie!
Awesome Movie!
Awesome movie for the PSP

Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (UMD Mini For PSP)
Starring: Chang Chen , Chow Yun-Fat , Chang Cheng , Cheng Pei-Pei , and Sihung Lung
Director: Ang Lee
Manufacturer: Sony Pictures
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: UMD for PSP

Hardware & Accessories | Specialty Stores | Computer & Video Games

General | Universal Media Discs | Stores | DVD | Video

Action & Adventure | Universal Media Discs | Stores | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

Hero (UMD Mini For PSP)
House of Flying Daggers
Kill Bill - Volume 1 (UMD Mini For PSP)
Black Hawk Down (UMD Mini For PSP)
Sin City (UMD Mini For PSP)

Accessories:

Sony PSP PlayGear Amp
Sony PSP Comfort Grips Black
Sony PSP Psyclone Nodus Sound System
Sony PSP Travel Case

Product Features:

Named "Best Picture of the Year" by over 100 critics nationwide! Two master warriors (Chow Yun Fat and Michelle Yeoh) are faced with their greatest challenge when the treasured Green Destiny sword is stolen. A young aristocrat (Zhang Ziyi) prepares for an arranged marriage, but soon reveals her superior fighting talents and her deeply romantic past. As each warrior battles for justice, they come f

ASIN: B0009IOWGG
Release Date: 2005-06-28

Product Description

Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon PSP UMD Movie MODEL- 11559 VENDOR- UMD MOVIE FEATURES- Crouching Tiger PSP Movie An epic set against the breathtaking landscapes of ancient China, Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon combines the exhilarating martial arts choreography by Yuen Wo-Ping (The Matrix) with the sensitivity and classical storytelling of an Ang Lee film. The result is something truly unexpected: romantic, emotionally powerful entertainment. Taiwanese filmmaker Ang Lee took a break from making Western period dramas to fashion this wild and woolly martial arts spectacular featuring special effects and action sequences courtesy of the choreographer of The Matrix (1999), Yuen Woo Ping. In the early 19th century, martial arts master Li Mu Bai (Chow Yun-Fat) is about to retire and enter a life of meditation, though he quietly longs to avenge the death of his master, who was killed by Jade Fox (Cheng Pei-pei). He gives his sword, a fabled 400-year-old weapon known as Green Destiny, to his friend, fellow martial arts wizard and secret love Yu Shu Lien (Michelle Yeoh), so that she may deliver it to Sir Te (Sihung Lung). Upon arrival in Peking, Yu happens upon Jen (Zhang Ziyi), a vivacious, willful politicians daughter. That night, a mysterious masked thief swipes Green Destiny, with Yu in hot pursuit -- resulting in the first of several martial arts action set pieces during the film. Li arrives in Beijing and eventually discovers that Jen is not only the masked thief but is also in cahoots with the evil Jade. In spite of this, Li sees great talent in Jen as a fig

Customer Reviews:

Awesome Movie!.......2005-09-07

Best UMD I've watched to date! If your into movies like Hero, or House of Flying Daggers you will love this one too!

Awesome Movie!.......2005-09-07

Best UMD I've watched to date! If your into movies like Hero, or House of Flying Daggers you will love this one too!

Awesome movie for the PSP.......2005-08-16

I first saw this Chinese-language film quite a while back on a rental VHS. Due to the poor tape quality I wasn't impressed. This time around, I simply fell in love with the PSP presentation. Great visuals (those lovely bamboo trees! and lovely Miss Ziyi), great soundtrack, pretty neat fighting sequences, and the PSP's beautiful screen makes all look so delicious. Now my coworkers who don't have a PSP want to borroww one from those of us who do have one, so they can watch this, too! Whether you are into Kung Fu or romance or just cute Oriental girls (or a Chow Yun-fat fan), this movie is totally for you!

Average customer rating:

WATCH THIS MOVIE WITH KIDS
Not even Ando can save this train wreck
This is not the Red Shadow I used to know
Entertaining, but...
Ninja A Go-Go!!!

Red Shadow
Starring: Jun Murakami , Masanobu Ando , Ryoko Shinohara , and Megumi Okina
Director: Hiroyuki Nakano
Manufacturer: Tokyo Shock
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Action & Adventure | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Art House & International | Genres | DVD | Video

DVDs Under $7.49 | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video

( R ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video

General | Foreign & International | Stores | DVD | Video

General | Indie & Art House | Stores | DVD | Video

A Film By Hiroyuki Nakano: Samurai Fiction
Lady Ninja (Sub)
Forbidden Warrior
Aragami: The Raging God of Battle
The Princess Blade

ASIN: B00029NM0E
Release Date: 2004-08-17

Description

The secret warriors of feudal Japan were the Ninja. Sent on impossible missions, the Ninja were trained to work in shadows, gather information and defeat the enemy to build a world of peace. Red Shadow, Blue Shadow and Aska are neophyte ninjas under the tutelage of White Shadow. Their life is a series of perilous missions that entail intrigue, deception and intimidation.

Customer Reviews:

WATCH THIS MOVIE WITH KIDS.......2007-03-07

This movie was not funny although it tried desperately,(perhaps thats why they didnt advertise it as a comedy).I got about 20 minutes through it and stopped.Only watched further along into because my kids saw it on the shelf(even they got bored with it).Although i saw it only 2 months ago..it is a vague memory.Do not buy this film unless u can get it real really cheap.Finding a respectable ninja/shinobi movie is harder than finding a good lasagne or shoes for that matter.Oh well the search continues,Any ideas?

Not even Ando can save this train wreck.......2006-05-12

Honestly, the only reason I even considered this movie was because of the very beautiful Masanobu Ando. And it starts out interesting enough... but quickly goes down. The story focuses around three ninjas, friends from childhood. When one of them dies the other two split up and set out to avenge her death. This movie is campy, but not in a good way. The stunts are cheesy, the music is BAD, and the acting leaves a lot to be desired. I was embarrassed to be watching this one.

This is not the Red Shadow I used to know.......2005-04-27

Just like the title... This is not the Red Shadow I used to know. Red Shadow is one of the famous Mangas back in 60's or earlier 70's, and was shoot in live-action TV series decades ago. Back in the 80's it was re-done into a whole new animation series which is what I grow up with, and the animation was a big-hit back then. Many toys, products were licensed under the animation line. I personally would say that the animation version of Red-Shadow was the best one. And I hope that they could make a compele series of Red Shadow Animation Series DVD.

In addition, the original manga is called "Masked Ninja: Red Shadow", and in the orignal story there are Red-Shadow (a school Teacher before he put mask on), Blue Shadow (a kid ninja who is smart), and White Shadow (a monk type of ninja who is older than Red Shadow and is his assistant). The original series has more like Batman/Spiderman/Superhero type of storyline, Red Shadow has two identities, and the other two ninjas are his sidekicks. Red Shadow even has a secret place where a man makes special weapons for them (Just like Q in James Bond). Kinda miss it.

Entertaining, but..........2005-04-19

Two things I immediately noticed: 1) Ancient china didn't have toenail clippers, 2) Nor did they have aerosol spray bottles... both of which were shown in the film. This cheapens it for me. While the action scenes were good, the acrobat scenes were highly unbelievable, and the part where Akakage disappeared in thin air were a bit over the top. That and the part where the master was creating fireworks from his fingertip. It was all done in a serious manner. If this was supposed to be a spoof movie it missed its mark big time. Maybe only a Japanese sense of humor would get it. I don't know. I did moderately enjoy the movie, despite the obvious cheesiness.

Ninja A Go-Go!!!.......2004-12-30

This is a great movie. It is intended as a light hearted adventure. A younger generation's not so heavy journey through friendship. Maybe some people don't care about such things, but I do :).

It's hip ninja action with 2 male leads who try to do just that in that silly way that makes this a joy to watch. Personal issues arrise and we are witness to how 3 young friends interact with each other. In the end they come out showing what friendship is all about.

How can you not like the Ninja Perfect Landing? ;)

Average customer rating:

Best of the Series
Never slows down
3.5, but jet li and sammo make it a a 4.
Another Jet Li flying on wires film
Fantastic incomplete Kung Fu saga

Lord of Wutang
Starring: Ekin Cheng , Man Cheung , John Ching , Wing Cho , and Collin Chou
Director: Jing Wong
Manufacturer: Beverly Wilshire
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Action & Adventure | Genres | DVD | Video

DVDs Under $7.49 | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video

All Deals | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video

( L ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

New Legend of Shaolin
Swordsman II
Dr. Wai in the Scriptures With No Words
The Martial Arts of Shaolin
The Legend

ASIN: B00005AWRG
Release Date: 2002-01-01

Customer Reviews:

Best of the Series.......2007-06-11

Many people do not know that this is only part of a 60 volume serial.
The main reason most people are confused about what is happening is a lack of understanding about internal energy or "Chi". This is the magic of the Orient. Many various legends of certain types of "secret" Kung Fu have existed for centuries in China and the chinese audinces are not so confused by the plot line.
If you suspend you dis-belief this is a fantastic, fuuny, deadly serious, bloody tale of sweat revenge; betrayal and ultimate victory for the underdog. I can't find a better movie that works on all these levels.
The english sub-titles are washed out by the background in some frames but can be gleaned if the movie is watched enough which you are sure to do.

Never slows down.......2007-01-26

Of all the movies I've heard, "Lord of Wutang" is undoubtedly the one... with the fastest pace.

Really. This movie never even pauses for breath, hurtling from one plot development to the next, and barely allowing the viewer to catch up. But if you can keep up with the rapid-fire pace, it's a rewardingly bizarre and comic adventure story with a fantastical little twist.

As a child, Mo-Kei (Jet Li) was hit with the deadly Jinx Palm, just before the terrible deaths of his parents. Mo-Kei grows up under the tutelage of a great master, but the Jinx Palm leaves him unable to fight or have sex -- until he and the sprightly marial artist Siu Chiu (Chingmy Yau) fall off a cliff.

There, Mo-Kei encounters a wacky old hermit embedded in a boulder, who teaches him the great "Solar Stance" kung-fu and cures him of the Jinx Palm. Now Mo-Kei can seek revenge for his parents' deaths, but he and Siu Chiu find themselves in the middle of a massive power struggle between the martial-arts schools, Shaolin monks, and the Evil Sect (which doesn't seem that evil).

"Lord of WuTang" is really kind of confusing -- revenge vendettas spring out of nowhere, battles start without warning, and the plot is so fast-moving that the whole thing seems to be about a day and a half's worth of action -- as soon as one subplot ends, another instantly starts. And yet, somehow despite all this craziness, it's still pretty entertaining.

Perhaps that's because this isn't intended to be a serious revenge epic. It has lots of verbal and physical comedy ("Get my head off of my a**!") and bizarre characters who are thrown in just to be bizarre, like the Red Cross sex freaks and the old hermit who rolls around inside a boulder.

But they don't neglect the kung-fu aspect, with lots of energy blasting, flying shields, and a great fast-paced duel between Li and a roaring Shaolin monk. It strikes a pretty good balance between the fantastical violence (flying killer shields?) and the realistic stuff that looks pretty bloody.

It's hard to keep the dozens of characters straight, especially since some of the girls are almost identical in dress and body language. But Li is appealing as the naive, peace-loving guy, and Yau is just as fun as his sprightly, spunky love interest. She even gets the kung-fu equivalent of a catfight.

"Lord of Wutang" is almost too fast paced to follow, but it still has a bizarre charm. Definitely worth watching.... so long as you don't leave the room.

3.5, but jet li and sammo make it a a 4. .......2006-03-26

Now I will go over later about the version that I have which has very easy to read subtitles.

This movie is so freaking weird, I still cannot figure out what the hell is going on. Jet li's parents are killed in a very dramatic scene, and jet gets touched by a cursed palm. The cursed palm makes it so jet cannot become good at martial arts. So guess what, he is gonna get his skills. Ya probably did not have to guess that, but this movie really goes out of it;s way for jim to learn. Definintely not your average revenge tale.

So I can't tell you exactly what I liked about this film because nothing really stands out too much, but there are so many crazy things that happen it would be impossible to list half of them. So for all you people like me who are always looking for that next great hand-to-hand movie, then this is a pretty good break.

Also this movie has a ton of stars in it. And it really tries to be a BIG movie, just doesn't quite live up to what it was supposed to be, but maybe it did, give your opinion.

Also-the version i have comes from widesceen, good picture quality, and BLACK OUTLINED subtitles. So you won't miss a thing, the sunbs are imbedded, but are easy to read, a first in my mind. The subs do run a little fast sometimes, but you can always pause. This has Dr. Wai on the other side(unwatchable picture quality), and comes in the JET LI COLLECTION. Don't get that boxed set with twin warriors and the bodyguard, but get the one that is like 11.99, and has a disc that has early jet li footage and also has a lengthy crowd lethal weapon 4 interview.
I would call those special features and when I classify them like that they are certainly some of the best special features that I have ever seen.

So get the jet li collection that HAS 4 MOVIES IN IT. Evil Cult master, Dr. Wai(unwatchable), lee-thal weapon, and I can't remember what the early footage feature is called.

Good stuff but don't buy this version unless it is longer than 103 minutes. Also people are saying you can't read the subs for this version which is a shame bacuse it didn't have enough action in it to excuse unreadable subs.

Another Jet Li flying on wires film.......2005-07-03

I didn't care for this movie the first time I watched it. It is pretty far from believable. But the 2nd time I watched it and I knew what to expect I enjoyed it a lot more. No, humans don't shoot lightning colored chi out of their hands. And people can't live being strapped to a large boulder. But it is still a good kung fu flick.

This one is SUB-TITLED and sometimes hard to read. White letters on a white background. I would like to find another version of this movie that has been dubbed in English for my collection.

Fantastic incomplete Kung Fu saga.......2005-04-28

Jet Li plays Chang Mo Kei, a young fellow who was injured as a child by a life threatening Kung Fu move called the "Jinx Palm", which has made him weak and unable to learn Kung Fu. Plus on the same day his parents were both forced to commit suicide, which, as you might expect, was also no fun. Mo Kei is raised by his father's former master, a spry 100 year-old played with great aplomb by an unrecognizable, white-haired Sammo Hung, who also did a very good job as the fight choreographer for the film. The plotline is too complex to summarize, but needless to say Jet Li starts kicking ass and taking names pretty quickly. The film is of the fantastic Kung Fu variety, with people flying through the air, and using magical Kung Fu powers which put Jedi Knights and Neo to shame.

"The Evil Cult" has a variety of english titles and is based on a chinese martial arts novel which hasn't been translated to any western languages as far as I'm aware. It was supposed to be the first in a trilogy, but it didn't make enough money and so even though Jet Li, Sammo Hung, and the others involved fought to make them, it never came to pass. Apparently there have been some other films and TV Series made following the same story, but the most recent TV Series from 2003 hasn't made it to North America yet.
Still this first part of an incomplete saga is a great kung fu flick, primarily because of the incredibly quick pace, intricate plotline, bad humour, and non stop ass-kicking fun. It overwhelms the senses and if this type of flick is your cup of tea, I think you'll find this is as good as it gets. It seems to be a style of film you either get or you don't, so don't be put off by any bad reviews you see. This isn't Proust, but has its own virtues. If you like it, you likely be frustrated when it ends before resolving much of anything plot-wise, but just hold on, I'm sure they'll do a proper remake in ten years with genetic clones of the original cast or thereabouts. We'll see.

Average customer rating:

Not as good of an editing job as the first double disc set, but still mroe than worth a watch
Donnie Yen Delivers
Excellent Taste of Asian TV KUNG-FU, Audio Comm Awesome!
Conclusion to the Kung Fu Mater
=(

Revenge of the Kung Fu Master
Starring: Lo Lieh , and Donnie Yen
Manufacturer: Tai Seng
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Action & Adventure | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Art House & International | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Foreign & International | Stores | DVD | Video

DVDs Under $9.99 | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video

( R ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

The Kung Fu Master (Special Edition)
Fist of Fury (Ws Spec)
The Legend of the Wolf
Shaolin vs. The Devil's Omen
The Tai Chi Master

ASIN: B0000AGQ64
Release Date: 2003-10-28

Customer Reviews:

Not as good of an editing job as the first double disc set, but still mroe than worth a watch.......2006-08-26

Let's see here, the 18 bronzemen, Pai Mei, and Fong Sai Yuk. I could keep going but this thing literally tries to be every kung fu movie ever made all rolled into one. Unfortunately we only see a glimpse of all these elements. The directing job is awesome but the editing job just leaves out too much. We get an ending but not a pleasign one. And they even skipped over the general's death. :(

The kung fu is not as good as the first bu overall this is a better story. Well, you actually have to see the full TV show to see what I am talking about. Full screened and cheap looking, but a GREAT TV show!

The commentary is good even though it is only 1 guy and not 5 altogether like the last one. It's all good though, commentaries are rare for kung fu movies and this one by Bey Logan was VERY enjoyable.

Donnie Yen Delivers.......2005-08-12

"Kung Fu Master" and "Revenge of the Kung Fu Master" are nothing short of incredible in my book. Originally action mini-series for Asian television, they effectively combine almost every main stay of the wu xia (heroic swordplay) epic. My recommendation would be to buy both at once.

Excellent Taste of Asian TV KUNG-FU, Audio Comm Awesome!.......2004-06-17

Martial arts movies have gone through a number of recyclings, and The Kung-Fu Master and Revenge of the Kung-Fu Master are not overly unique or different than the films of previous generations, but have encapsulated and paid homage to a generation of martial arts filmmakers. The superb cast and abovepar martial arts sequences have come together in a fairly interesting and exciting tale of martial arts involving the Han Ming rebels versus the infamous Manchurian Chings. If this is your first foray into martial arts films, best to start elsewhere, if you have seen martial arts films and crave something different, then the series is well worth watching. Keep in mind, the series is based on Asian Television programming and will have the look and feel of TV, but the production value, acting, and scenes are on par with the best of Asian films. What makes the series so endearing is the overall length and character development of famous martial artists seen in past great kung-fu films such as Wing Chun, Fong Sai Yuk, Master Killer, New Legend of Shaolin, Executioners of Death, and many more films, ie Shaw Brothers. From step one you follow the amazing Donnie Yen as title character Hung Hei-Kwun (Hung Hsing Kwan) from his humble beginnings to the great destruction of Shaolin Temple, along the way you meet a cast of characters, all as interesting and talented as Donnie Yen. Considering the series is edited from an entire season into a few hours on each DVD and still manages to tell a cohesive story is truly amazing. In addition, both DVDs offer dubbed or subtitled soundtracks, I prefer sub but the dubbed version is pretty decent, and the audio commentary from both films merits a 5 star rating automatically. The foremost experts on Asian films and Donnie Yen (1st one only) give insight, humor, and history into the making of the series. This is a true must own for any martial arts film fan and the cost is the same as one mediocre Hollywood action film. Enjoy and keep watching.
Yours truly, John Dae Min

Conclusion to the Kung Fu Mater.......2004-03-11

These two DVSs contain the second part of the story of Kung Fu Master, bringing the original 30-episodes TV show from China to a conclusion. The series on DVD (both Kung Fu Master and the Revenge of the Kung Fu Master) has been re-edited to bring coherent storylines and as well as to cut out some lengthy conversation scenes from the original series. I thought the editing wasn't too bad considering how much they had to cut out. They've edited these episodes to flow well and to create a faster-paced movie out of the series. There are plenty of action, great fight scenes, good character development and interesting story line. I've always enjoyed watching Donnie Yen and I though he did really well here. There are several audio tracks, presented in DDigital 5.1 and DTS in Cantonese, an English track in DDigital 5.1 for those who don't like to read subtitles (I think subtitles are better though), and commentary by Bey Logan a kung fu expert/D.Yen's friend. There's a 12 minute "Making Of" feature. All in all, if you are a Kung Fu fan, this would be something you'd want to check out. We are fortunate to experience a Chinese TV Kung Fu saga edited for us.

=(.......2003-11-05

Kung fu master was a favorite of mine in the martial arts genre due to its solid story and the main character being portrayed by Donnie Yen (Great actor). However, Revenge of the Kung fu master (the second half of Kung Fu Master) is an utter mess. The pacing of the story is absolutely out of control, important key events are not delved into far enough, such as the survival of certain key characters, and a lot of areas made honestly no sense whatsoever.

I have a strong feeling that a lot of the scenes were cut since the story didn't exactly flow very smoothly at all. It's like getting from one side of a canyon to the other without having to deal with the gapping hole that stands inbetween.

Honestly, I would only recommend this dvd package for those who want a conclusion (note: not a very good one) to Kung Fu Master.

DVD:

DVD List

DVD

DVD

World's Famous Detectives Vol 1

Bullet To Beijing

Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs - Collector's Edition (2 Dis

DVD: The Irish R.M. - Series 2

Pardes