Shaolin Temple (1982)

Long before Jet-Li was flying around on wires in Romeo Must Die, he was making low budget and plotless films with some of the best fight scenes you'll ever be likely to see. Before seeing this film I'd seen a movie of the same name, that isn't in this series, but is from a similar time period. The Jet Li film isn't quite as good as that was, but it's still a must see for any self-respecting kung fu movie fan.

The movie tells how a young man (Jet Li) escapes a slave camp after his father is killed by an evil general. He is taken in by Shaolin Monks where he learns the art of Shaolin. With his martial arts skills greatly improved he seeks to avenge his father's death. With the help of the other Shaolin monks he avenges his father's death and helps the true emperor to gain power.

The plot is not all that important however. What is important is the fight scenes, some lasting ten minutes and involving some awesome use of weapons and the different styles of Shaolin. Of course there's also the effiminate character to contrast with the male dominance, but she has no trouble handling herself. The film culminates with a series of fight scenes between the monks and the General's men. All religious devotion is thrown out the window as the Shaolin monks release they must fight against evil. Jet Li's character then devotes himself to Budha, much to the dismay of his master's daughter.

Acrobatic, yet raw, powerful fighting at its best.

4 out of 5

Glen Smyth

Coming soon - Shaolin Temple II, Kids of Shaolin