Buzz
Wuxia is a renowned Chinese literary genre that revolves around fantasy swordsmanship, honor, and romance, first popularized by authors such as Jin Yong and Gu Long. Over time, the genre has expanded into television series, comics, video games, and, naturally, films. This list presents ten noteworthy or intriguing movies, arranged in no particular order, offering a glimpse into the fascinating world of wuxia. There are countless remarkable films in the genre, and I hope this selection encourages you to explore even further.
10. Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon
Our list begins with a movie many are familiar with: Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. This film received widespread acclaim in the West but was met with some criticism in China for being deemed too 'westernized.' Personally, I have a deep appreciation for it, as it served as a perfect introduction for audiences new to the wuxia genre. Directed by Ang Lee and based on the novels by Wang Dulu, the film explores the complex relationship between Li Mu Bai, his unrequited love Yu Shu Lien, and the defiant daughter of a nobleman, Jen. Fun Fact: Cheng Pei-Pei, who plays the Jade Fox and is Zhang Ziyi's mentor, also appears in another renowned movie featured in this list.
9. Bride with White Hair
Directed by Ronny Yu, this film adapts the novel Bai Fa Mo Nu Zhuan (Legend of the White Haired Maiden) by Liang Yusheng. Starring Brigitte Lin and Leslie Cheung, the movie is a love story in the vein of Romeo and Juliet, depicting the struggles of two characters trying to be together. Featuring elements of fantasy and eccentric characters, including a twin antagonist who is both male and female, the film’s conclusion may appear like a cliffhanger, but I believe it feels complete as it is, as it closely mirrors the novel’s ending.
8. The Swordsman II
This film is the sequel to Swordsman, directed by Tsui Hark and based on Jin Yong's novel Smiling Proud Wanderer. It earns its place on this list because it’s just as captivating as the first movie, and introduces one of my favorite characters, Dong Fang Bu Bai. While the film takes significant liberties with the source material—one of the criticisms—it remains an exhilarating and entertaining watch.
7. The Storm Riders
Unlike other films inspired by novels, this one draws from a comic book. Renowned for its heavy use of CGI, though it may feel dated today, the film follows Wind and Cloud, two young men who lose everything and are raised to become lethal weapons for a tyrant. After uncovering the truth about their pasts, they must join forces to defeat their common enemy.
6. House of Flying Daggers
House of Flying Daggers stands apart from typical wuxia films as it combines martial arts with a deep romantic storyline. Directed by Zhang Yimou, it stars Andy Lau and Zhang Ziyi, one of China's most renowned actresses today. Set in 859 AD during the decline of the once-powerful Tang Dynasty, the film follows rebel groups, including the House of Flying Daggers, based in Feng Tian county. These rebels steal from the wealthy to aid the poor, earning the favor of the locals. Upon its release, the film received critical acclaim at Cannes and, in the author’s opinion, is a must-watch for any wuxia fan.
5. A Touch of Zen
In contrast to most wuxia films where the male protagonist is a skilled and courageous fighter, A Touch of Zen follows a scholar who begins as innocent and awkward until he crosses paths with Yang, a woman who has become a fugitive after her family was murdered by a merciless eunuch. Known for its stunning cinematography and visual effects, the film culminates in a hauntingly beautiful ending. The bamboo fight scene from this film even inspired the iconic bamboo duel between Zhang Ziyi and Chow Yun Fat in Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.
4. Killer Clans
Based on the novel *Meteor, Butterfly, Sword*, this film is a labyrinth of secrets within secrets. The story begins with an assassin assigned to kill the leader of a formidable clan, but things are far from straightforward. The characters are not what they seem, every move seems to set a trap, and too many key figures are turning up dead. There is a traitor among them, but who could it be? This is a high-stakes game of cat and mouse, where the real question is: who is the cat, and who holds the reins of power?
3. Clans of Intrigue
Chu Liu Xiang could be likened to the James Bond of the wuxia world—a dashing gentleman thief capable of charming even the fiercest serpent with just a smile. But his reputation is in jeopardy as he is accused of assassinating the leaders of the country’s most powerful clans. In order to clear his name, he must uncover the true killer. With stunning set designs, breathtaking martial arts, and plenty of twists, this fast-paced film is a gripping ride, despite a trailer that might give away a bit too much.
2. Ashes of Time
Ashes of Time is a film that divides opinion—either you’ll love it or you won’t. The plot often seems to wander aimlessly, with characters and scenes coming and going. But why is it on this list? In my view, the film is often misunderstood. It's a semi-prequel focusing on Ou Yang Feng, a character who later becomes the antagonist in *Legend of the Condor Heroes*, a story so iconic it has been adapted multiple times, with its actors becoming household names. A psychological exploration of good and evil, human motives, and fate, this film offers a thought-provoking, albeit somber, look at an alternative side of wuxia.
The film was re-released under the title 'Ashes of Time Redux' a few years ago. I haven't seen this updated version, but I'm aware that several new scenes were included, the soundtrack was completely revamped, and the cinematography was reworked. The trailer here is for the original version of the movie.
1. Come Drink with Me
In this classic wuxia film, Cheng Pei-Pei plays Golden Swallow, a fierce and skilled woman on a mission to rescue her brother from a band of ruthless bandits. Despite being outnumbered, she proves her strength and courage, holding her own against the men. With the assistance of a beggar called 'Drunken Cat,' she faces the leader of the bandits to ensure her brother's safe return. This iconic film features memorable moments, like the early exchange where the characters challenge each other, 'I’ll show you my skill, you show me yours.' If you watch only one film from this list, make it this one.
