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中國鐵人 (1973)
Iron Man


Reviewed by: MrBooth
Date: 05/19/2006
Summary: 7/10 - great action

The story is simple, and a blatant response to FIST OF FURY - super-evil Japanese occupiers are strutting around town like they own the place, until they are challenged by a tough Chinese chef (Wen Chiang-Long) who refuses to kow-tow to them. Zero subtlety or balance to be found here, but that was the spirit of the times I guess.

The film features much of the same cast and crew as TRIANGULAR DUEL, and appears to have been shot about the same time (many of the sets, locations and haircuts reappear here). The story is less interesting (which is actually quite an achievement) and the acting equally non-existent... but the film delivers even more action. The fights are again quite realistic(-seeming), with a lot of full contact blows and some very long takes. It often seems like the fighters are improvising - i.e. really fighting - though there are some more obviously choreographed and occasionally outlandish moments in the tournament-style finale. Wen Chiang-Long doesn't have the same grace or poise as Bruce Lee, but is an impressive fighter - especially because the fights have a more desperate, life-or-death quality, rather than the stagy "let me show off my skills" fights Bruce choreographed for himself. Wen is a bit closer here to the invincible Chinese hero archetype Bruce created than his character in Triangular Duel was, though.

One disappointment is that Nancy Yen doesn't get to fight in this film - I was hoping to see more of her in action after TD. Choi Wang's appearance is only brief too, but there are plenty of other good fighters to keep us entertained.

Not a lot to the film except the fighting, but certainly one that fans of kung fu will want to see :)

Reviewer Score: 7

Reviewed by: STSH
Date: 12/28/2000
Summary: Lots of action, variable quality

If you like lots of fighting, and you're not too fussy about how good it is, you'll love this film. What plot there is only serves to cause people to belt each other and join the fight scenes. The acting is stiff-upper-lip at best, and is full-on melodrama.
The main thing is the fighting. During the first half of the film, the fights are little more than brawling. I could detect no particular style used - just guys punching and kicking the bejesus out of each other. The second half is mainly taken up by a showdown in the Japanese camp in their martial arts room and the boxing tournament, which showcases several different styles. The lead actor, Wen Chiang Long, looks fierce and patriotic throughout, and his style seems to accentuate power. His main rival at the end, the incredibly ugly Yee Yuen, is a worthy opponent, and he's terrific to watch.
Once again, Nancy Yen is given star status, but doesn't have much to do.
In summary, not one of the great Joseph Kuo's great works, but not bad either.

Reviewer Score: 6