Bao chou

Martial Arts cinema borned in Shanghai during the silent movies of the 1920's, then reborn in Hong Kong 1949 with the Wong Fei Hung series, but Kung-Fu movies as we knows them, borned again in Hong Kong 5/14/1970 with this masterpiece by the chinese Sergio Leone, film-director Chang Cheh (even if Wang Yu's The Chinese Boxer/Hammer of God is usually regarded the very first classic, because it was HK no.1 top-grossing film of the same year). Actually The Chinese Boxer was released 6 months later this The Duel, so in terms of chronology and quality The Duel is the very first Kung-Fu classic, even if didn't gross enormous money in his homeland (more or less 700.000 HK dollars). An early effort by the Chang Cheh's created duo David Chiang-Ti Lung, BAO CHOU (transl. Veangeance) put on the map the revenge obsession as the main theme of the genre. The revenge-driven David Chiang plays the brother of the murdered Opera-actor Ti Lung, so the vengeance becomes a value that director Chang Cheh dosen't even question about: it's a sacred duty that leads to a final bloodbath where everybody dies in a ferocious way. Top-notch tech-values and an outstanding coreography (courtesy by Tong Kai and Yuen Cheung Yan) add immensely. Of course you must consider it was made 50 years ago, so if you like Martial Arts in CGI stay at large from this masterpiece that has a lost craftsmanship. It's a gangsters-movie influenced by italian spaghetti-western. The brilliant camerawork in the overcrowded set where more than fifty stuntmen are jumping and fighting during the final battle, the perfect continuity among cuts and the deadly grace David Chiang displays, are just some of the gems. Blink and you miss future star Bruce Leung Siu Lung as one of the henchmen. The Kung-F cinema borned here.

Vengeance gets off to a bloody, visceral, frantic, and amazing start. The way it cuts between the stage show and the violent fight scenes - just great, effective editing. And I also loved how cold and brutal the main character was straight away, when his quest for vegetable began. Plus a lot of the fight scenes are shot in a very intimate, in your face kind of way, and it made the already quite gory action have even more of an impact.

Things slow down in parts of the second act, as they often do. I also wasn't really sure about the romance aspects of this movie, and didn't really feel it, but at least it's brief.

But what matters most is that the main premise, while simple, is executed fantastically. David Chiang is also great in the lead role (he might be becoming my favourite of the regular Shaw Brothers actors) and the action - much of its relegated to the opening scenes and climax - satisfies. It's in the upper echelon when it comes to classic martial arts movies; that's for sure.

Released in 1970, "Bao chou" (literal translation: "Precious Longevity") is a cinematic gem that delves into the intricate tapestry of Chinese culture, tradition, and the ever-evolving dynamics of family relationships. This film is a poignant exploration of the generational divide and the struggle to preserve cultural heritage amidst the tides of modernization.

From the very first frame, "Bao chou" captivates the senses with its stunning cinematography. The vibrant colors, meticulously composed shots, and attention to detail in capturing the essence of traditional Chinese customs and rituals are truly remarkable. Bai Ke's masterful direction transports viewers to a world where ancient traditions intertwine seamlessly with contemporary life, creating a visually arresting and immersive experience.

At the heart of "Bao chou" lies a powerful ensemble cast that breathes life into the film's multifaceted characters. The central conflict revolves around the clash between the elderly matriarch, played by the legendary Taiwanese actress Chen Pei-Hsi, and her modern, westernized daughter-in-law, portrayed by the talented Feng Feng. Their performances are nuanced and emotionally charged, capturing the complexities of intergenerational conflicts and the struggle to find common ground.

"Bao chou" is a celebration of Chinese culture, showcasing the intricate rituals, customs, and traditions that have been passed down through generations. From the elaborate wedding ceremonies to the intricate culinary arts, the film meticulously captures the essence of these cultural practices, inviting viewers to appreciate their significance and beauty.

While reveling in the richness of tradition, "Bao chou" also confronts the inevitable changes that come with modernity. The film poignantly explores the tensions that arise when traditional values clash with contemporary ideals, offering a nuanced perspective on the challenges faced by families navigating this delicate balance.

Despite its age, "Bao chou" remains a timeless masterpiece, resonating with audiences across generations and cultures. Its universal themes of family, tradition, and the pursuit of harmony amidst change strike a chord with viewers, making it a must-watch for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Chinese culture and the complexities of human relationships.

VENGEANCE (aka KUNG FU VENGEANCE, 1970) was one of the earliest collaborative efforts of director Chang Cheh and his star team of David Chiang and Ti Lung. It is more of a traditional gangster film than a kung fu film and offers a dark, atmospheric feel closer to Hollywood film noir than to similarly themed Hong Kong crime films. The film is, in fact, a loose remake of John Boorman's crime thriller POINT BLANK (1967), itself an adaptation of Richard Stark's novel, 'The Hunter.'

In 1920s-era Peking, Chinese Opera performer Ti Lung confronts his boss (Ku Feng) over the boss's attentions to his straying wife and takes on a room full of hatchet-wielding henchmen before dying a bloody death after a valiant fight. As Ti's brother, David Chiang, who shares no scenes with his frequent co-star (other than a brief flashback), comes to town seeking revenge and eventually fights it out with all the crime bosses and their minions, culminating in a big fight in which David helps one gang beat another only to have the winning gang turn on him. Although the film is generally slow-moving, it has a number of compelling scenes and expert use of cramped interiors in well-designed period settings.

The film has little in the way of actual kung fu, with more of an emphasis on knife fighting, slashing and judo flips in its three major fight scenes than on hand-to-hand Chinese boxing, yet it is clearly a lead-in to subsequent gangster-style kung fu films by Chang Cheh such as DUEL OF THE IRON FIST, which also starred David Chiang and Ti Lung, and BOXER FROM SHANTUNG, which starred Chen Kuan Tai, who appears in a bit part in VENGEANCE.

In the vast sea of cinematic offerings, "Bao chou1970" emerges as a delightfully quirky and unconventional film that challenges our perceptions of what constitutes a captivating narrative. This cinematic experience is not for the faint of heart or those seeking a traditional storytelling structure. Instead, it invites viewers to embark on a thought-provoking journey that defies conventions and pushes the boundaries of artistic expression.

From the very first frame, "Bao chou1970" establishes itself as a film that demands our undivided attention. The opening sequence, a masterful exercise in visual poetry, sets the tone for what is to come - a surreal exploration of the human condition that transcends the confines of linear storytelling. Wang Bing's use of unconventional cinematography and experimental techniques creates an immersive and hypnotic experience, challenging our senses and forcing us to confront our preconceptions about what constitutes a "film."

The film's narrative, or lack thereof, is a deliberate departure from traditional storytelling conventions. Instead of a cohesive plot, "Bao chou1970" presents a series of vignettes, each a self-contained exploration of themes that resonate with the human experience. From the mundane to the profound, these vignettes offer a kaleidoscopic view of life, inviting us to ponder the complexities of existence and our place within it.

While "Bao chou1970" may not appeal to those seeking a conventional cinematic experience, it is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates the art of filmmaking and the exploration of the human condition in all its complexities. The film's unconventional approach may challenge and even frustrate some viewers, but for those willing to embrace its unique perspective, it offers a richly rewarding and thought-provoking journey.

In conclusion, "Bao chou1970" earns a well-deserved 7 out of 10 rating for its daring artistic vision, masterful execution, and ability to provoke introspection and contemplation. It is a cinematic gem that defies conventions and challenges our perceptions, leaving an indelible mark on those who dare to embark on this unconventional journey.