I love Bruce Lee movies. Seriously, I can’t get enough. The guy was great & by all accounts the stuff you saw him do on screen he could really do (well, except for beating up 100 guys at the same time.) However, the movies he made were different but they were also part of an ages old tradition that he tapped into.
A lot of the movies back then grew out of the Chinese opera. Even the movements seen in the fights were based on the Chinese opera. So’ those jackasses that go around saying “Well, that stuff wouldn’t work in real life…” don’t realize that kind of stuff. It’s super, SUPER stylized but done by real deal martial artist. In fact, if you ever get a chant to see a real Chinese opera… Go!!! And you’ll see what I’m talking about. The 70’s fighting movies really borrowed a lot from that art form. Most just modernized it & added things for entertainment value.
One of the companies that was really prolific about making those movies and along with Bruce sparked the martial arts craze in the United States (& the world) was the Shaw Brothers Studio.
A lot of their hits can be heard sampled by the super Hip Hop group Wutang Clan which lets you know that the Shaw Brothers reach into popular culture is nothing short of incredible.
So take a little time & read about the company that actually inspired the Matrix & many other Hollywood powerhouses productions with their acrobatic martial moves. Ladies & gentleman, I present to you… the Shaw Brothers!!!
The Legacy of the Shaw Brothers: Masters of Hong Kong Cinema
When it comes to classic martial arts and Hong Kong cinema, one name stands above the rest: Shaw Brothers Studio. Founded in 1958, the studio became the defining force in Chinese-language cinema for decades, producing some of the most influential martial arts films of all time. The Shaw Brothers’ impact on action filmmaking, pop culture, and the global perception of kung fu movies remains undeniable.
The Rise of Shaw Brothers Studio
Shaw Brothers Studio was founded by Run Run Shaw and his brother Runme Shaw, building on their family’s legacy in the film industry. They revolutionized Hong Kong cinema by introducing Hollywood-style studio systems, complete with contracted actors, grand sets, and a rigorous production schedule that resulted in a staggering output of films.
During the 1960s and 1970s, the studio was at its peak, churning out hundreds of movies that defined the martial arts genre. Unlike the earlier wuxia (fantasy swordplay) films, Shaw Brothers productions emphasized realistic hand-to-hand combat, elaborate choreography, and compelling storytelling, setting a new standard for action films.
Martial Arts Cinema and Global Influence
Shaw Brothers Studio was instrumental in popularizing martial arts films worldwide. Their movies introduced audiences to legendary actors such as Ti Lung, David Chiang, and Gordon Liu, as well as visionary directors like Chang Cheh and Lau Kar-leung.
Some of the most iconic Shaw Brothers films include:
– “The One-Armed Swordsman” (1967) – Directed by Chang Cheh, this film was a turning point in martial arts cinema, bringing a grittier, bloodier style to the genre.
– “Five Deadly Venoms” (1978) – A cult classic known for its unique characters and intricate fight sequences, influencing everything from hip-hop culture to Quentin Tarantino’s films.
– “The 36th Chamber of Shaolin” (1978) – Starring Gordon Liu and directed by Lau Kar-leung, this film is often considered the ultimate Shaolin kung fu movie, inspiring countless martial arts enthusiasts.
– “Eight Diagram Pole Fighter” (1984) – Another Lau Kar-leung masterpiece, known for its intense fight choreography and tragic storyline.
These films, along with many others, directly influenced Hollywood action movies, anime, video games, and even hip-hop music. Artists like the Wu-Tang Clan famously sampled and referenced Shaw Brothers films, further embedding their legacy into pop culture.
The Decline and Lasting Impact
By the 1980s, the rise of independent filmmakers like Bruce Lee and Golden Harvest Studios, along with the increasing popularity of Jackie Chan’s modern action comedies, led to Shaw Brothers losing its dominance. The studio eventually stopped making films in 1987, shifting its focus to television production.
Despite this decline, Shaw Brothers’ legacy remains strong. Their films continue to be restored, released on Blu-ray, and studied by filmmakers and fans alike. Directors such as Quentin Tarantino, the Wachowskis (of The Matrix fame), and even contemporary action stars like Donnie Yen have acknowledged the studio’s massive influence on their work.
Conclusion
The Shaw Brothers revolutionized martial arts cinema, creating films that remain beloved by fans worldwide. Their unique blend of storytelling, action choreography, and visual style set the foundation for the modern action genre. Whether you’re a longtime kung fu fan or a newcomer to classic Hong Kong cinema, Shaw Brothers films are essential viewing for anyone interested in the evolution of action filmmaking.
Pretty cool eh? Fun fact for ya, these fools actually turned down Bruce Lee! Well, they were going to take him but pay him like their other contract players & that just wasn’t happening. Once Mr. Lee blew up some talks happened & Mr. Lee was going to do a project with them! In fact there are some pictures of him in traditional dress (which I will post for you to see) done in preparation of said movie. Unfortunately, he passed away before the man could do the project. Man, can you imagine that movie?!!! Well, we’ll end things here. We’ll see you next time with some exciting news!!!
Lata!
L
One Armed Swordsman
5 Deadly Venoms
