Kung Fu: The Movie

The 80's and 90's saw a lot of first rate tv movies but just off a rewatch made me feel the film had a cheap 70's feel to it. Carradine is older but film can be seen as a sequel to the 72 pilot ( just saw for the first time ) and series or as a remake of the first film. Brandon Lee is not much of a presence but I liked the ending.

"Kung Fu: The Movie" (1986) serves as a bridge between the classic 1970s television series and a new generation of fans, introducing Brandon Lee to audiences in his acting debut. The film seamlessly blends the spirit of the original series with a modern action-adventure aesthetic.

David Carradine reprises his iconic role as Kwai Chang Caine, the Shaolin monk who wanders the American West seeking inner peace. However, Caine's past catches up with him when he's framed for murder by a vengeful Chinese warlord, The Manchu (Mako). Forced to flee, Caine seeks help from his estranged son, Chung Wang (Brandon Lee), a young man struggling to find his place in the world.

The film masterfully interweaves themes of family, honor, and the clash between Eastern and Western cultures. The action sequences are well-choreographed, showcasing both Caine's graceful Kung Fu and Chung Wang's raw, youthful energy. The chemistry between father and son is palpable, adding an emotional depth to the story.

While paying homage to the original series, "Kung Fu: The Movie" also explores new territory. It delves into the complexities of Caine's past, revealing hidden secrets and unresolved conflicts. The film also introduces new characters and storylines, expanding the Kung Fu universe.

Despite its action-packed nature, the film maintains a thoughtful and introspective tone. Caine's philosophy of peace and harmony remains central to the narrative, even as he confronts violence and injustice. The film serves as a reminder of the enduring power of wisdom and compassion in a world often dominated by conflict.

"Kung Fu: The Movie" is a successful continuation of the beloved series, captivating both old and new fans. It stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Kwai Chang Caine and a poignant introduction to the immense talent of Brandon Lee.

'Kung Fu' was the ultimate martial arts television series that had evolved into a few movies and other adaptions. This movie starred David Carradine, and I saw it on television originally in the 1980s when it was first broadcast. I remember that this film was a little dry and it lacked a really coherent story and the charm that the television series offered. This seemed more modernised and more like a movie that was all about the action and the martial arts. I just thought it did not work very well. Maybe I was prejudiced because I enjoyed the television series a lot more, and I expected something different. This film just did not do it for me, and it was more involved with the action than anything else, so it suffered from a storyline, and I just did not care for the story. I think it had something to do with finding a long lost brother or son or something. Unengaging. Not as good as the series. Watch the series instead!

You are on the right path young grasshopper, but still much to learn if you want to hear the grasshopper at your feet. David Carradine a decade later returns to the role of the fugitive Shaolin priest Kwai Chang Caine made famous in the mid 1970's American TV series "Kung Fu". Bringing the ways of ancient east to the old Wild West, his past transgressions comes back to put him a dangerous predicament. He becomes a prime suspect of a murder, which he believes a vindictive Chinese warlord (Mako) is behind. His now-grown up son he left behind years ago (Brandon Lee in his debut) is after his blood, as an assassin under the mysterious trance of this warlord.

This made-for-TV film tries to rekindle the spirit of the TV series (that I saw bits and pieces in reruns), but comes off being a sloppy, and at times dull extended episode. Western and Eastern cultures clash, where it's not only the bounty hunters Caine must confront on his inner quest, but also themes of racism and prejudice. The story is plot focus, a murder mystery with dilemma solving, set-ups, opium smuggling and a few moments of sudden, cheesy kung-fu. Although nothing to write home about. The fun comes from the philosophy laced dialogues of wisdom, footage of Keye Luje as Master Po the venerable blind teacher, window-dressing visual mystic tricks of mind over matter, Mako's flame throwing rifle(?!) and Carradine in slow-motion effortlessly throwing people through glass windows making it into an art-form. Lalo Schifrin's majestic score probably deserved better and Kerrie Kean, Benson Fong, Luke Askew and Martin Landau also appear.

This appears to have been the first calculated step taken towards diminishing the legacy of the incredible Kung Fu TV series. Look at the writer's credits. The Shaolin order has been destroyed! (says you). How much more awful can you get? No more spring of wisdom and center of peace, while the carrier of the flame is wrapped up in family affairs with the man we don't give two farts about (the father of the nephew), and an illegitimate son intent to kill him. Caine was a role model for many that grew up with the TV show. It is such a pleasure to observe the regular folks interact with the thoughtful and humble one. (ok IMDb here's your 10th line)