I'm not sure what other reviewers were watching when they say there's a lack of action in this film. Every few minutes a fight erupts or some potential Allie or enemy comes on the scene.
The fight choreography is really stunning, and some of the best of its time (ie still better than 99% of films even today) .
This is a similar format to many Chor Yuen films- a great detective tale with stunning direction, magical sets and fabulous ambience.
The actors are all now rightly considered legends of the studio.
I've watched over 400 Shaws films, but strangely missed this one- due to its rarity until the big remastering project by Celestial/Shaws..... and this one really stands out as a gem among many other gems.
Others here have given more in-depth overviews and some plot pointers, but I like to go into a film knowing almost nothing about it, so will avoid any more repetition.
Have sword, can fly, seems to be the norm with these productions, and if you enjoy SWORDPLAY FILMS (rather than FISTS & FEET, which are more grounded in 'reality') then this is certainly one of the very best- from any era.
There are some truly incredible moments in this that will make your jaw drop... I will say no more- but you will never forget this film once you've seen it !!! It certainly contains colourful characters and a whole heap of imagination.
I watched this film after the latest episodes of 'The Last of Us' and 'Picard season 3' (both junk) and by goodness it almost knocked me out with sheer ENTERTAINMENT value... so, tonight its time for its sequel LEGEND OF THE BAT !
HIGHLY RECCOMENDED FOR ANY GENUINE OLD SKOOL KUNG FU FANS- watch with friends if you get the chance.
