Martial Arts and Magic

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MOVIE REVIEW
Kid From Kwang Tung
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Genre: Martial Arts, Action, Comedy, Fantasy, Horror
Year Released: 1982, 2024 88 Films Blu-ray
Runtime: 1h 39m
Director(s): Hsia Hsu
Writer(s): Keith Li
Cast: Wong Yu, Richard Yuen Tak, Yen Shi-Kwan, Hwang Jang-Lee, Kwan Fung, Wong Mei-Mei, Ku Kuan-chung, Tsung Hua
Where To Watch: available November 12, 2024; pre-order your copy here www.88-films.myshopify.com, www.mvdshop.com or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: KID FROM KWANG TUNG leaps onto the scene with a fusion of traditional martial arts and zany comedy, breaking away from the standard fare offered in the genre during this era. Under the direction of Hsia Hsu, this film is not just another addition to the Shaw Brothers’ arsenal but a bold redefinition of the genre itself, blending gags with gravity-defying combat sequences.

We enter this tale on the grounds of a Qing dynasty rebellion; we meet He Jiayu and Wu Dezhi, two martial artists from rival clans who initially connect through playful rivalry rather than outright hostility. As depicted by Wong Yu and Chiang Kam, these characters quickly evolve from schoolyard pranksters into central figures in a burgeoning revolution led by their teacher, Mr. Zhang. This evolution from petty rivalries to a meaningful alliance sets the backdrop for a story that delves deep into themes of loyalty and bravery.

The narrative escalates with the entrance of the film’s villain, Luo Yihu, whose mastery of martial arts and ruthless tactics poses a formidable challenge to our protagonists. Portrayed by the legendary Hwang Jang-Lee, Luo Yihu brings urgency to the screen, which propels He Jiayu and Wu Dezhi to put aside their differences and tackle the threat head-on. His antagonistic role is crucial, merging seamlessly with the action choreography of Tsui Fat and Yuen Tak, turning every fight scene into a showcase of brilliance and raw power.

Not content to stick strictly to combat, KID FROM KWANG TUNG also indulges in the outlandishly fantastic. It’s a film where our heroes battle it out wearing insane costumes, an absurd yet thoroughly amusing spectacle that perfectly captures the film’s willingness to mock and subvert its roots.

While the initial act of the film may throw some viewers with its episodic, almost sketch-like comedy sequences that seem at odds with the unfolding drama, the narrative finds its stride in the latter half. Here, the earlier comedic overtones give way to a more polished and sharply focused storyline, where character development is at the forefront, bolstered by stirring and well-executed martial arts sequences that both entertain and engage.

KID FROM KWANG TUNG is a spectacle, with meticulous attention to detail in the costumes and sets that define Shaw Brothers films. The cinematography is dynamic, capturing the intricate choreography and vibrant aesthetics of the set, enriching the viewing experience with every frame.

This film represents a significant shift in martial arts cinema, juxtaposing serious combat sequences with light-hearted and whimsical elements that make it stand out in a crowded world of competitors. While it might stray too far from tradition for some purists, it offers a fresh perspective for viewers open to a mixture of high-stakes action and fun.

Hsu’s work on KID FROM KWANG TUNG is a vibrant testament to the creative possibilities within martial arts filmmaking. The movie challenges traditional genre conventions and reinforces the enduring legacy of the Shaw Brothers as pioneers of cinematic innovation. Offering a mix of laughter, action, and a bit of the supernatural, KID FROM KWANG TUNG remains a pivotal film for those venturing into the diverse landscape of kung fu cinema, proving that even the most well-worn paths can lead to new and exciting destinations.

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[photo courtesy of 88 FILMS, MVD ENTERTAINMENT]

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