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Ten Chambers and CountingFeb 14 '01 (Updated Nov 16 '01) Write an essay on this topic.The Bottom Line If I deem it worthy, I spend the cash (or wait in pained anticipation for the DVD release). I usually buy the movies I consider “the best ever,” so the following is a list (in no particular order) of the martial arts films I own or am waiting to come out on DVD. Check my opinion roster for specific reviews. 1. Fist of Legend (own) – When the Wachowski Brothers saw this film they decided martial arts choreographer Yuen Woo Ping should work his magic for “The Matrix.” Be prepared for some brutal work on people's more sensitive areas, like armpits and joints. 2. Drunken Master (waiting for a decent DVD release) – This film made Jackie Chan a star in Asia and was directed by the aforementioned Yuen Woo Ping. It also gives an interesting and much-needed explanation for the Drunken Kung Fu movements. Bonus fact: Yuen’s dad plays the old, drunken master! 3. Legend of Drunken Master (own) – Jackie Chan’s best martial arts film. 4. Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon (own) – This film sets a new standard for the genre by combining an interesting story (a rarity) with incredible martial arts choreography. 5. Shaolin Master Killer (own) – This is the oldest martial arts film on the list and is considered a genre classic. It tells the story of how Shaolin Kung Fu made its way from the monks to the common man. I first saw this when I was eight years old and have never forgotten it. Be prepared for some bad English dubbing though. 6. The Chinese Connection (own) – “Fist of Legend” is a remake of this film, in which a young student returns from studying abroad to avenge the murder of his Kung Fu master. Though a little choppy (no pun intended), Lee displays more authentic Wing Chun moves than in the latter title. (Wing Chun is a Southern Kung Fu style that was, legend has it, created by a woman.) 7. The Prodigal Son (wish list) – If you're curious about Wing Chun in particular this is the movie to watch. Considered the most realistic of martial arts movies, viewers will get a quick lesson in the difference between genuine and movie kung fu. 8. Supercop (own) – Though more of a spy movie, I loved this film mainly because of Michelle Yeoh. If you want an example of how a woman can kick butt, start with this movie and then see “Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon.” Afterwards you’ll realize what an insult the “Charlie’s Angels” movie was to the notion of “girl power.” 9. The Matrix (own) – Though not entirely a martial arts movie, it pays homage to the genre by requiring its actors to do what Hong Kong actors have been doing all along – their own stunts. Though Keanu Reeves looks a little silly at times, one can’t help but be impressed by the efforts of the entire cast. Excellent choreography and talented filmmakers don’t hurt either. 10. The Shaolin Temple (own) - This was Jet Li's first feature film and is a great one to watch if you favor pure martial arts. Though, like most martial arts films, the story leaves a little to be desired, it is more than anything a great demonstration film for various wu shu forms and weapon techniques. There are other films - like the “Once Upon A Time in China” and “Swordsman” series - that others consider excellent, but they didn’t make my “I Like I Buy” list because I have a strong bias against wire-augmented fighting (“wire fu”). “Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon” and “The Matrix” are clear exceptions to this because of the context in which wires were used (in the case of “The Matrix”) and because of the wire technique (in the case of “Crouching Tiger”). There are certainly some films I’ve heard are great but aren't readily available. Hopefully there will be an update to this list in the future.  |
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by lindaohio by Stephen_Murray
by carstairs38
