Action Member: Liu Chia-Liang

Despite the fact that ‘Challenge Of The Masters’ hasn’t aged as well as some of Liu Chia-Liang’s other notable works, there’s undoubtedly much on offer for genre fans and the casual cinema-goer.

Another awesome Shaw Brothers film with an insane concept and some heavenly fight action choreographed by the one and only Liu Chia-Liang.

This splendid period kung-fu film once again gives evidence of the immense quality that rolled out of the Shaw Brothers studios during the 70’s.

The film has stood the test of time in terms of fight action, performances and direction, all of which are exceptional.

‘Disciples Of The 36th Chamber’ is a quality film; from the choreography to Liu Chia-Liang’s artistically composed frames, this is a more sophisticated kung fu film.

This is truly a masterpiece of the genre with Chan, who was approaching his 40th birthday at the time, on astounding form.

The weak plot and general ridiculousness are just too much to bear, and most of the star power winds up being utterly wasted.

The choreography is refreshing and innovative though the storyline is badly developed and cannot fall back on well-written characters.

This masterful kung-fu drama shows how quickly Liang found his own way of conveying his thoughts to the audience.

With ‘Five Shaolin Masters’, there is a definite impression that the great director’s inspirational ideas of brotherhood and honour are somehow diluted.

‘Heroes Of The East’ starts relatively slowly, but when the storyline develops beyond the basic exposition, this is another kung fu treat from ‘The Pops’.

‘Heroes Two’ is not one of the definitive collaborations between Chang Cheh and Fu Sheng, but it offers quality in most departments.