Cinematic Journey Through Vengeance

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MOVIE REVIEW
The Swordsman Of All Swordsmen (Limited Edition Set) (Blu-ray) (Yi dai jian wang)
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Genre: Action
Year Released: 1968
Runtime: 1h 25m
Director(s): Joseph Kuo
Writer(s): Shui-Han Chiang, Tien-Yung Hsu, Joseph Kuo
Cast: Tien Peng, Chiang Nan, Cho Kin, Miao Tien, Hsieh Han, Ko Yu-Min, Lu Shih, Meng Hua Yang, Polly Shang-Kuan Ling-Feng
Where To Watch: available March 25, 2024; pre-order your copy here www.eurekavideo.co.uk

RAVING REVIEW: THE SWORDSMAN OF ALL SWORDSMEN feels like discovering a piece of forgotten history in the jungle of martial arts cinema. This film tackles vengeance at its core, directed by Joseph Kuo, dotted with philosophical musings against the tumultuous 1960s backdrop. At its core is Tien Peng as Cai Ying-Jie, whose quest for justice does more than just entertain; it probes the depths of right and wrong in a world teetering on the edge. It's a thrilling ride as thrilling as thought-provoking, albeit one that sometimes trips over its ambition.

In 1968, a world embroiled in conflict set the stage for a tale that transcends mere martial prowess. Kuo crafts a narrative where Tien Peng's character doesn't merely swing his sword for the sake of action but follows a purposeful path with danger and ethical dilemmas. This melding of high-octane action with a quest for something greater lends the film a gravitas that keeps it relevant even today.

Taiwan's landscapes offer a majestic arena for meticulously choreographed duels. The film's flair and finesse highlight its place in the wuxia tradition. Its ambition to blend Western cinematic styles with traditional wuxia sometimes results in a disjointed viewing experience. Additionally, the plot's complexity can occasionally ensnare the narrative flow, leaving viewers piecing together the storyline.

Yet, the film’s delve into themes of redemption, integrity, and the intricate dance with a vengeance, anchored by solid performances, notably Tien Peng's, elevates it above mere action. Directed with an eye for spectacle and depth, Kuo’s film offers a rich, if occasionally convoluted, cinematic experience that might not cater to all tastes but certainly marks its territory within the wuxia genre.

Ultimately, THE SWORDSMAN OF ALL SWORDSMEN etches its name in the annals of martial arts cinema not just for its action-packed sequences but for its willingness to engage with more profound, more complex themes. While it may not be the definitive wuxia experience for everyone, it is a testament to the genre's capacity for narrative and visual depth, making it a worthwhile watch for those seeking more than just thrills in their cinematic ventures.

SPECIAL FEATURES
Limited Edition Two Disc Set [2000 copies]
Limited Edition Bonus Disc – The Mystery of Chess Boxing
Limited edition O-Card slipcase featuring new artwork by Grégory Sacré (Gokaiju)
A Limited Edition collector’s booklet featuring new writing on both films by James Oliver
Limited Edition Set of facsimile lobby cards and Double-sided poster featuring original release posters

DISC ONE – The Swordsman of All Swordsmen
1080p HD presentation on Blu-ray from a 2K digital restoration completed by the Taiwan Film Institute
Original Mandarin audio
Optional English Subtitles
Brand new feature-length audio commentary by Asian film expert Frank Djeng and film writer John Charles (The Hong Kong Filmography, 1977–1997)
Archival interview with director Joseph Kuo

BONUS DISC TWO – The Mystery Of Chess Boxing
1080p HD presentation on Blu-ray, scanned from the only known surviving print of the film supplied by collector Dan Halsted (Head Programmer at the Hollywood Theatre, Oregon)
Original Mandarin, Cantonese, and "classic" English dubbed audio options
Brand new feature-length audio commentary by Asian film expert Frank Djeng and martial artist/filmmaker Michael Worth
Brand new feature-length audio commentary by action cinema experts Mike Leeder and Arne Venema
Limited edition reversible artwork by Darren Wheeling
*All extras subject to change*

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[photo courtesy of EUREKA ENTERTAINMENT]

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