From the credits this seems to be a Shaw Brothers production but it is listed otherwise. Nevertheless, except for some odd camera angles and movements this has all the qualities of a Shaw Brothers production. It is filmed on the Shaw stages and has the same costumes and props. Historically this would be the first movie appearance of both Jason Pai Piao and Chen Kuan-Tai.
My copy is the German version. It has German titles and dialog and English subtitles were added by a bilingual fan with a good sense of humor. My thanks to that fan. If you find a copy it will be either German or Italian dubbing.
The fights are primarily with weapons and the choreography is great as expected from the two top action directors of the time. However there is often a noticeable lack of power and focus in the execution of the moves.
It starts with the narrator explaining the politics while bandits rob the escort company. A wounded man makes it back home. He was followed by the bandits (who have the support of the corrupt emperor.) After a fight the go on the run and check into a large teahouse inn. The story continues with them on the run.
I rate this movie as a notch above average for the year and genre. I recommend it for all martial arts movie fans. Hard core fans will enjoy the challenge of finding the first scenes with Jason Pai Piao and Chen Kuan-Tai.
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