HBO is bringing the chance for American audiences to learn more about two of the best Chinese martial arts fighters during the 19th Century. “Master of the Drunken Fist: Beggar So,” and “Master of the Shadowless Kick: Wong Kei-ying,” are being released as digital downloads on January 24, 2017. Both films will be released on Blu-ray and DVD in the future, with an upcoming release date to be announced.
The films are the first Chinese-language productions from HBO Asia and the production company’s first steps into the martial arts genre. Both films are produced by Corey Yeun and directed by Guo Jian-yong. Yeun is best known for his film series, “The Transporter”, and Guo Jian-yong has choreographed action scenes in several well known martial arts films including “The Transporter” films.
“Master of the Drunken Fist: Beggar So” follows the story of So Chan who is a wealthy merchant who ends up caught up in a politically charged predicament which costs him everything he has, including his family. He seeks help from a gang leader who teaches him the art of the Drunken Fist in order for him to seek revenge.
“Master of the Shadowless Kick: Wong Kei-ying” tells the story of Wong Kei-ying, who is a mild-mannered physician who prides himself on following all of the ins and outs of proper medical treatments. Wong is tricked by a new governor of his town, Wei, who aims to control the city’s opium business. Wong decides to learn and master the skill of the Shadowless Kick in order to finally take down Wei.
The two films are very ambitious ventures of HBO Asia, and should bring a new insight to the American audience of the world of martial arts.