Chop Socky - Cinema Hong Kong
For anyone interested in the origins of martial-arts action films,Chop Sockyprovides a perfect introduction the historic milestones, important films, and famous figures in "Cinema Hong Kong." Co-produced by the Independent Film Channel for original broadcast in 2004, this hour-long documentary offers a smart, in-depth survey of Hong Kong'swuxiafilm legacy and its vibrant influence on global cinema, from its earliest roots in Beijing Opera and the monastic rituals of Chinese Shaolin monks to Quentin Tarantino's tribute to Hong Kong action inKill Bill, Vol. 2. All of the bases are covered, from Hong Kong cinema's first martial-arts hero (Wong Fei Hung) to the balletic choreography of Chang Che, the "one-punch" impact and immortal charisma of Bruce Lee, and the evolution of kung-fu comedy as epitomized by Jackie Chan. Most of the surviving masters of Hong Kong cinema are included in informative (and subtitled) interviews, including John Woo, Jet Li, Sammo Hung, Jackie Chan, and Lar Kar-Leung, who provides a fascinating survey of martial-arts weaponry. The Hong Kong technique of editing-in-camera is thoroughly demonstrated in a multi-screen sequence, and abundant film clips provide tantalizing samples of the genre's classic films, including King Hu'sCome Drink with MeandDirty Ho, cited here as Hong Kong cinema's "one true masterpiece." Engaging and expertly comprehensive,Chop Sockycould turn almost anyone into a Hong Kong action enthusiast.--Jeff Shannon