Film Illiterate, wherein the proprietor records movies seen, and sporadic progress through assorted lists of the "best". Originally started after regretfully renting something forgettable for the third time. I've forgotten what, but never again! A tedious endeavour since 2005. Hello. 🙂
Also known as
Shao Lin san shi liu fang
Lists
Shaw Brothers films always feel artificial to me, and this is no exception. The cinematography is too bright and flat; the fight scenes too obviously choreographed. They are spectacular, however, if unexceptional by the standards of the genre's best.
The plot is worthy if rather limited in scope -- there's only so much you can do with narrative book-ending an hour long training montage. Most of 36th Chamber is taken up by our hero's rigorous training in the art of Shaolin kung fu, with perhaps the most perilous water-hauling and bell-ringing in the history of chores. That Karate Kid had it easy.
Worth a look.