@celeste_writes
A patient, formally daring work — the cinematography lingers on empty rooms longer than most audiences will tolerate, but those who stay are rewarded with the most haunting final act of the year.
In late 19th-century Canton, legendary hero Wong Fei-Hung battles foreign forces' (English, French and American) plundering of China. When Aunt Yee returns from America totally westernised, Wong assumes the role of protector. This proves difficult when his martial arts school and local militia become involved in fierce battles with foreign and local governments. As violence escalates, even Aunt Yee has to question her new western ideals, but is it possible to fight guns with Kung Fu?
Quick Stats
7.1
TMDB Rating
491
Votes
2h 14m
Runtime
—
Budget
$3.8M
Box Office
—
Return
Key Crew
DirectorTsui Hark
WriterElsa Tang Bik-Yin
CinematographyArthur Wong Ngok-Tai
ComposerRomeo Díaz
EditorMarco Mak Chi-Sin
Production DesignKenneth Yee
Produced by
Paragon FilmsOrange Sky Golden Harvest
Where to Watch
Streaming
Netflix
HBO MaxBuy
Apple iTunesSee more on TMDB → JustWatch
Critics & Reviews
3 featured@jhalberg
I walked in expecting another genre exercise and walked out feeling like I'd been eavesdropping on a confession. The lead performance is genuinely singular — a career-defining turn.
@priya_a
A few too many scenes feel borrowed from a better film, but the soundtrack and the production design carry the rest. Solid recommendation for fans of slow-burn European thrillers.
Cast
Jet Li
Wong Fei Hung
Yuen Biao
Leung Foon
Jacky Cheung Hok-Yau
Buck Teeth So
Rosamund Kwan Chi-Lam
13th Aunt
Kent Cheng Jak-Si
Porky Wing
Yuen Gam-Fai
Ling Wan Kai
Yen Shi-Kwan
Iron Robe Yim Chun Tung
Lau Shun
Naval Commander Lau
Wu Ma
Grand Uncle Chueng
Yau Gin-Gwok
Shaho Gang Leader
Yuen Cheung-Yan
Yim's Opponent
Karel Wong Chi-Yeung
Governor
Yuen Shun-Yi
Honorable Manchu Soldier
Xiong Xinxin
Shaho Gang Member
Jonathan Isgar
Mr. Jackson
