As one of the important genres of Chinese films, costume martial arts movies have always been loved by audiences. From the classic "Once Upon a Time" series to "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon", these films not only showcase gorgeous martial arts techniques and grand scenes, but also convey the spiritual connotation of Chinese culture. Here, I recommend twelve classic costume martial arts movies for you to relive those once blood-boiling moments.
1. "Once Upon a Time" series.
As the most influential kung fu superstar in the Chinese film industry, Jet Li's image of Huang Feihong is deeply rooted in the hearts of the people. He plays Huang Feihong, who is vigorous and righteous, showing the breadth and profundity of Chinese martial arts. The "Once Upon a Time" series is set in the late Qing Dynasty, showing the interweaving of *** and class conflict, and has become a masterpiece of costume martial arts movies.
2. "The East is Undefeated".
This film, directed by Tsui Hark, shows the love-hate relationship in the world of martial arts. Lin Qingxia played the undefeated Oriental with a gorgeous shape and unique temperament, becoming one of the most classic martial arts images in film history. Through a rich plot and visual effects, the film brings the audience into a world full of fantasy and romance.
3. "Smiling Proud Jianghu".
"Smiling Proud Jianghu", adapted from Jin Yong's name**, is directed by Hu Jinquan and starring Xu Guanjie, Ye Tong and other stars. The film shows the righteousness and loyalty of the martial arts world by showing Ling Hu Chong's journey in the rivers and lakes. At the same time, the film also shows the unique visual style and characteristics of Chinese films.
Fourth, "New Dragon Gate Inn".
This film, directed by Li Huimin, has been hailed as a milestone in Chinese martial arts films. The film is set in the middle of the Ming Dynasty and tells the story of the grievances and hatreds between Morong Mansion and Longmen Inn. The outstanding performance of stars such as Leung Jiahui, Lin Qingxia, and Leslie Cheung has made the film a classic.
5. "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon".
This film, directed by Ang Lee, is set in the last years of the Qing Dynasty and tells the love entanglements and grievances between Yu Xiulian and Luo Xiaohu. The film showcased the best martial arts skills and visual effects in Chinese films, becoming the first Chinese-language film to win the Oscar for Best Picture. The outstanding performance of stars such as Zhang Ziyi, Chow Yun-fat, and Maggie Cheung has made the film a masterpiece in film history.
6. "Hero".
As one of the most expensive productions in the history of Chinese cinema, "Hero" shows unprecedented visual effects and production scale. By telling the story of the four major assassins of the Warring States Period, the film shows the loyalty and faith of the martial arts world. At the same time, the film has also become an important milestone in the internationalization of China's film industry.
7. "Ambush on All Sides".
This film, directed by Zhang Yimou, is set in the late Tang Dynasty and tells the love story between a catcher and a courtesan. Through the exquisite set and costume design, the film shows the unique aesthetic style of Chinese films. At the same time, the film also shows the intrigue and betrayal in the martial arts world.
8. "The Condor Heroes".
"The Condor Heroes", adapted from Jin Yong's name of the same name**, is set in the Southern Song Dynasty and tells the love story between Yang Guo and Xiaolongnu. Through rich visual effects and the outstanding performance of the actors, the fantasy world in ** is vividly presented.
9. "Red Cliff".
As the most invested war epic film in the history of Chinese cinema, "Red Cliff" is set in the Battle of Red Cliff during the Three Kingdoms period and tells the battle of wisdom and courage between Zhou Yu, Zhuge Liang and others. Through exquisite special effects and scene design, the film reproduces the magnificent scenes of ancient warfare. At the same time, the film also shows the bravery and wisdom in the world of martial arts.
10. "Rain of Swords".
This film, directed by Su Zhaobin, is set in the Ming Dynasty and tells the love story between a female chivalrous guest and a eunuch. Through a unique narrative and wonderful martial arts design, the film brings the audience into a world full of fantasy and romance. At the same time, the film also shows the grievances and hatred and justice in the martial arts world.
11. "Embroidered Spring Knife" series.
As a high-profile costume martial arts movie in recent years, the "Embroidered Spring Knife" series is set in the Ming Dynasty and tells the history of Jinyi Wei Shen Lian. The series has earned high praise from the audience for its well-made production and excellent cast. By showing Shen Lian's loyalty and faith, the film presents morality and responsibility in the martial arts world.
12. "Chivalrous Woman: Memory of the Sword".
This film directed by Tsui Hark, set in the middle of the Ming Dynasty, tells the story of the grievances and hatred between the heroine Gu Yinghao and Jin Yiwei. Through a unique narrative and gorgeous visual effects, the film brings the audience into a world full of fantasy and romance. At the same time, the film also shows the way of justice and moral responsibility in the martial arts world.