King Hu's "Ying chun ge zhi Fengbo," or "The Fate of Lee Khan," is a thrilling ride through the martial arts genre, with a healthy dose of noir and comedy sprinkled on top. It's an ambitious undertaking that, while not without its flaws, cements Hu's legacy as a master of his craft.
The film follows a central premise of assassination, but don't expect a heavy, gritty affair. Hu injects levity and humor into the mix, creating a more light-hearted and playful atmosphere than one might expect.
The ladies of the film take center stage when it comes to martial arts prowess, and they don't disappoint. The occasional scrapes and fights leading up to the climax showcase their skills, and the final act is a non-stop action extravaganza. Hu's trademark wu xia touches are on full display, with characters defying gravity in their leaps and using hidden trampolines to traverse the inn with ease.
However, it's important to note that the film may not satisfy those seeking the intense, contemporary-set martial arts spectacles that Bruce Lee popularized. Hu's style is more classical and elegant, with a simmering tone that builds tension. This film is part of a new wave of wuxia films that Hu helped pioneer, but it may have felt out of step with the market at the time of its release.
The story and pacing have their fair share of issues. The plot sometimes feels convoluted, with too many subplots and characters that don't get enough development. Certain scenes feel rushed, while others drag on for too long, disrupting the flow of the narrative. Despite these flaws, Hu's direction and the strong performances from the cast, especially the leading ladies, shine through.
"Ying chun ge zhi Fengbo" is a film that, while not perfect, is an enjoyable and unique entry into the martial arts genre. It showcases Hu's mastery of blending genres and his ability to create compelling, action-packed stories. It may not be as well-known as some of Hu's other works, but it's a hidden gem worth discovering, especially for fans of martial arts films seeking something a little different.
A fun, ambitious, and unique martial arts adventure with a healthy dose of comedy and thrilling action, slightly held back by pacing issues and a convoluted narrative.
