This is an unusual movie for Shaw Brothers in that Joseph Kuo is the director and Ivy Ling Po is really the only Shaw Brothers star. I believe this is the second or third time I have watched this movie over the past nine years or so therefore I must post a review. Oddly the only thing I remember about this movie before watching it again is Liu Ping's bad "spray tan".
It begins with the need for another mighty power book of kung fu secrets that could enable world domination. Every time this plot hits the screen I have to ask: If you can defeat the master and take his book do you really need it as it didn't seem to help him any?
This movie is also heavy on the "chi". The rationalization is that if you have a powerful chi you can do telekinesis, move objects with your mind. This a super power similar to Luke Skywalker looking at his light saber and it jumps into his hand. I have a big problem with this power regardless of the Star Wars universe or the martial arts universe. If you could lift a sword with your mind you could also fire a bullet out of your pocket. Telekinesis is a poorly thought out power. If I had the ability I would be a walking Gatling gun just by having a pocket full of bullets.
Twice a practical effect of a sword or spear on a wire is used. Both times it was a great effect. Using wires for props came after using the wires on the stunt men but it creates more imaginative possibilities.
I rate this movie above average and will likely watch it again some day.
