By Kim August === David* “Da Wei” Chiang remains one of Shaw Brothers most beloved performers for his superb acting skills and whimsical, acrobatic martial arts. David Chiang’s ease on camera can be traced back to his cinematic beginnings as a child star in the 50s and...
Directed by the legendary Lau Kar-leung, the 1978 film “The Shaolin Mantis” (a.k.a. The Deadly Mantis) blends elements of an espionage thriller, domestic drama and period martial-arts action film at its traditional best, deftly balancing the always-exceptional Shaw Brothers studio physicality, not skimping on weapons-play,...
Love abounds in Shaw Brothers movies. Below are a few favorites featuring sword-crossed fighters, and modern-day innocents who may or may not find their heart's desire. Have Sword Will Travel (1969) by Chang Cheh. Yun Pao Pao’s (Li Ching) devotion to fiancé Siang (Ti Lung) only...