After "The 18 Bronzemen" and "Return of the 18 Bronzemen", Joseph Kuo and Carter Wong worked on another movie with similar setting, but even though the movies in their longer versions borrowed some footage from each other, it's not exactly a trilogy as Carter Wong plays a different character again. Raised by monks, he wants to stay with them, but they send him away. Soon he is attacked by 8 Kungfu masters who were involved in the killing of his father. They suspect he came back for vengeance, and even though he wants peace, he doesn't have a choice and gets into one fight after another. It's less original and not a classic of the genre as much as the two above mentioned movies, besides the Bronzemen appear but briefly in footage partly taken from "Return...", but quite good nonetheless with an action-packed last half hour.
6 Reviews
Bless You!
JoeytheBrit23 September 2008
Warning: Spoilers
Having survived the punishing tests prepared for him by the 18 Bronzemen in Joseph Kuo's 1976 movie, former Royal Hong Kong Police Department martial arts instructor Carter Wong finds himself facing the same adversaries in this 1977 effort helmed by the same director. This time, however, the bronzemen make only a brief 'guest' appearance, and are quickly despatched by our toothsome hero. As in Kuo's earlier movie, however, it is these few scenes, in which Wong attempts to pass the tests laid by his hairy-browed masters, that are the most interesting, which means that once they're over we're left with a further ninety minutes of familiar kung fu choreography to sit through.
Wong plays Chiu Sau-cheh, son of a man killed by the eponymous eight masters, who, as a child, is saved from the same fate as his father by his mortally wounded uncle, who takes him to the local shaolin temple (there seem to be as many shaolin temples in this country as there are branches of Mcdonalds in England). Taught the techniques of kung fu, a fully-grown Chiu Sau-cheh emerges into the world with the peaceful philosophy of his wise old master ringing in his ears. Returning to his blind mother, who is being tended by a comely wench named Ming Chu (bless you!), Chiu Sau-cheh soon finds himself challenged to a fight by the eight masters, who refuse to take no for an answer, even though Chiu Sau-cheh is the middle-ages version of a tree-hugging peacenik. Only when his kidnapped mother kills herself by banging her head against a rock does Sau-cheh abandon his peaceful ways and set out to wreak a little vengeance.
While it is marginally better made than many 70s kung fu flicks, and boasts a superior script than most, The 8 Masters suffers from a convoluted plot that means a full hour has passed before we get to see Wong take on the villainous masters. There are plenty of other fights along the way but, by the time Wong finally gets down to kicking the first master's bottom you find yourself thinking: I've got to watch another seven of these? Fortunately, once he starts, Wong doesn't stop; galloping from one master to the next like a man possessed (how tough can these masters be if one man can kick their backsides, one straight after the other?), Wong glowers at them beneath his painted eyebrows like a silent-movie villain before his old master's pearls of wisdom echo in his head: Keep the peace; have patience; forgive offence.
While it's good to see a kung fu flick with a lot more plot than usual, the writers leave themselves with too much to do at the end, and we have to sit through a lengthy explanation of what it's all about from the arch-baddie that serves only to confuse the viewer even further. And yet, the script also sees Ming Chu (bless you!) revealing her dark secret to Sau-cheh far too early. And, when all is said and done, it's still the same old story about a lone man killing dozens of bad guys to avenge his father/family.
The fights, as always, are the best thing about this film, and there are plenty to keep the core audience satisfied. The rest of us will have to make do with admiring the extremely fetching Miss Doris Lung Chun-Erh (Doris?), and laughing incredulously at the tremendous over-the-top histrionics of the movie's chief baddie.
Wong plays Chiu Sau-cheh, son of a man killed by the eponymous eight masters, who, as a child, is saved from the same fate as his father by his mortally wounded uncle, who takes him to the local shaolin temple (there seem to be as many shaolin temples in this country as there are branches of Mcdonalds in England). Taught the techniques of kung fu, a fully-grown Chiu Sau-cheh emerges into the world with the peaceful philosophy of his wise old master ringing in his ears. Returning to his blind mother, who is being tended by a comely wench named Ming Chu (bless you!), Chiu Sau-cheh soon finds himself challenged to a fight by the eight masters, who refuse to take no for an answer, even though Chiu Sau-cheh is the middle-ages version of a tree-hugging peacenik. Only when his kidnapped mother kills herself by banging her head against a rock does Sau-cheh abandon his peaceful ways and set out to wreak a little vengeance.
While it is marginally better made than many 70s kung fu flicks, and boasts a superior script than most, The 8 Masters suffers from a convoluted plot that means a full hour has passed before we get to see Wong take on the villainous masters. There are plenty of other fights along the way but, by the time Wong finally gets down to kicking the first master's bottom you find yourself thinking: I've got to watch another seven of these? Fortunately, once he starts, Wong doesn't stop; galloping from one master to the next like a man possessed (how tough can these masters be if one man can kick their backsides, one straight after the other?), Wong glowers at them beneath his painted eyebrows like a silent-movie villain before his old master's pearls of wisdom echo in his head: Keep the peace; have patience; forgive offence.
While it's good to see a kung fu flick with a lot more plot than usual, the writers leave themselves with too much to do at the end, and we have to sit through a lengthy explanation of what it's all about from the arch-baddie that serves only to confuse the viewer even further. And yet, the script also sees Ming Chu (bless you!) revealing her dark secret to Sau-cheh far too early. And, when all is said and done, it's still the same old story about a lone man killing dozens of bad guys to avenge his father/family.
The fights, as always, are the best thing about this film, and there are plenty to keep the core audience satisfied. The rest of us will have to make do with admiring the extremely fetching Miss Doris Lung Chun-Erh (Doris?), and laughing incredulously at the tremendous over-the-top histrionics of the movie's chief baddie.
Kung fu madness with a top climax
Leofwine_draca7 July 2016
Warning: Spoilers
Joseph Kuo's follow-up to his 18 BRONZEMEN is actually the second sequel, although all three films are only loosely connected. Carter Wong returns to the fold, this time playing a young martial artist who graduates from the Shaolin Temple to lead a peace-loving life – except his dead father annoyed a lot of people, all of whom think that his son should pay the debt, and decide to fight him. The finale of the film sees Wong battling the titular characters in a fitting showdown and climax to this series.
This movie is something of a guilty pleasure, and it's far better than it has any real right to be. Things kick off with some good old-fashioned old-school kung fu as Wong once again takes on the might of the Bronzemen, battling both them and the various traps that have been devised for him in the Shaolin Temple (including moving that darned burning brazier again). This is a vicious, wildly-edited sequence that begins the film on a good footing.
After that, the problem of the saggy middle becomes apparent, with Carter Wong's limitations as an actor becoming apparent and some very routine fights in a restaurant and the like; this is nothing you haven't seen before. Thankfully, things pick up for the extended climax, as Wong battles a variety of fighters in some stunning Taiwanese locations. Always using his bare hands – even when faced with weapons – Wong is something of a pacifist and usually ends up taking a bruising before being forced to fight. When he does, he's great, and these showdowns at the film's climax are a joy to behold, unpredictable and full of tricks.
Just when you think things have finished, we're introduced to some Chinese spirits and, joy of joys, hopping vampires, who I didn't think appeared in Chinese films until they were made popular in 1980's ENCOUNTERS OF THE SPOOKY KIND. Wong beats the hell out of all these before facing the ultimate boss, an undefeatable guy who just won't stop, bursting through the stone flags in a courtyard in one scene. It's a hell of an ending and just a shame that all the action was packed into the beginning and end like this – if somehow they'd kept the pace up throughout, this would have been a classic; as it is, it's an easy viewing gem.
This movie is something of a guilty pleasure, and it's far better than it has any real right to be. Things kick off with some good old-fashioned old-school kung fu as Wong once again takes on the might of the Bronzemen, battling both them and the various traps that have been devised for him in the Shaolin Temple (including moving that darned burning brazier again). This is a vicious, wildly-edited sequence that begins the film on a good footing.
After that, the problem of the saggy middle becomes apparent, with Carter Wong's limitations as an actor becoming apparent and some very routine fights in a restaurant and the like; this is nothing you haven't seen before. Thankfully, things pick up for the extended climax, as Wong battles a variety of fighters in some stunning Taiwanese locations. Always using his bare hands – even when faced with weapons – Wong is something of a pacifist and usually ends up taking a bruising before being forced to fight. When he does, he's great, and these showdowns at the film's climax are a joy to behold, unpredictable and full of tricks.
Just when you think things have finished, we're introduced to some Chinese spirits and, joy of joys, hopping vampires, who I didn't think appeared in Chinese films until they were made popular in 1980's ENCOUNTERS OF THE SPOOKY KIND. Wong beats the hell out of all these before facing the ultimate boss, an undefeatable guy who just won't stop, bursting through the stone flags in a courtyard in one scene. It's a hell of an ending and just a shame that all the action was packed into the beginning and end like this – if somehow they'd kept the pace up throughout, this would have been a classic; as it is, it's an easy viewing gem.
The 18 Bronze Men return in a superb Shaolin epic
BrianDanaCamp10 November 2001
EIGHT MASTERS (aka 18 BRONZEMEN 3) is something of a follow-up, rather than a sequel, to THE 18 BRONZEMEN (listed on IMDb as EIGHTEEN BRONZEMEN) and THE RETURN OF THE 18 BRONZEMEN (aka 18 BRONZEMEN 2), both of which were also directed by Joseph Kuo. It is a far better film than the first two, with a stronger story, more intense fight scenes, engaging characters, and a gripping emotional undertone.
Carter Wong returns in a starring role and stars as Chu Sao Chieh, the son of a now-dead fighter who had run afoul of the notorious Eight Masters. As a boy, Sao Chieh is rescued by his father's comrade and taken to Shaolin Temple where he learns all the skills of the Shaolin Masters and grows up to be Carter Wong, who then 'graduates' from Shaolin by fighting and beating the assembled Bronze Men.
Back in the outside world, Carter reunites with his mother and Ming Chu, the daughter of the comrade who rescued him. The Eight Masters come looking for him and challenge him to a battle, but he refuses, recalling the maxims of the Shaolin monks, 'keep the peace, have patience and forgive offense.' He flees to the country with his mom and Ming Chu and, after the masters track him down, the three flee again, this time to a cave. It turns out that not all of the main characters are exactly who they claim to be and there are enough twists and turns to keep viewers hooked until Sao Chieh finally relents and agrees to fight each of the Eight Masters in bouts that take up the last 20 minutes of the film.
The fighting is fast and furious and expertly photographed in a series of outdoor Taiwan locations and beautifully appointed sets. Carter is as good here as he's ever been and fights primarily with his hands, even when his opponents use exotic weapons. The action is balanced by an emphasis on family obligations, with Carter's attention to his mother and fiancé providing a poignant subtext that strengthens and deepens the story.
The acting is quite good and is matched by above-average voice dubbing. Lung Chun Erh is the beautiful actress who plays Ming Chu and has some moving dramatic scenes with Carter. The great fighting femme Chia Ling (Judy Lee) is on hand in a small but important role as one of the Eight Masters, with a surprising secret in her past, and she has one particularly ferocious fight with Carter. The ending is quite satisfying and provides a fitting, if bittersweet, resolution to the entire Bronzemen series.
Release dates for the film are alternately given as 1974, 1976, 1977, and 1982, with 1976 being the most likely year. The film features an original Chinese music score rather than the patchwork soundtrack of ripped-off music cues that most English-dubbed kung fu films are saddled with. This unsung kung fu masterpiece marks a real discovery that will delight and surprise the genre's many fans.
Carter Wong returns in a starring role and stars as Chu Sao Chieh, the son of a now-dead fighter who had run afoul of the notorious Eight Masters. As a boy, Sao Chieh is rescued by his father's comrade and taken to Shaolin Temple where he learns all the skills of the Shaolin Masters and grows up to be Carter Wong, who then 'graduates' from Shaolin by fighting and beating the assembled Bronze Men.
Back in the outside world, Carter reunites with his mother and Ming Chu, the daughter of the comrade who rescued him. The Eight Masters come looking for him and challenge him to a battle, but he refuses, recalling the maxims of the Shaolin monks, 'keep the peace, have patience and forgive offense.' He flees to the country with his mom and Ming Chu and, after the masters track him down, the three flee again, this time to a cave. It turns out that not all of the main characters are exactly who they claim to be and there are enough twists and turns to keep viewers hooked until Sao Chieh finally relents and agrees to fight each of the Eight Masters in bouts that take up the last 20 minutes of the film.
The fighting is fast and furious and expertly photographed in a series of outdoor Taiwan locations and beautifully appointed sets. Carter is as good here as he's ever been and fights primarily with his hands, even when his opponents use exotic weapons. The action is balanced by an emphasis on family obligations, with Carter's attention to his mother and fiancé providing a poignant subtext that strengthens and deepens the story.
The acting is quite good and is matched by above-average voice dubbing. Lung Chun Erh is the beautiful actress who plays Ming Chu and has some moving dramatic scenes with Carter. The great fighting femme Chia Ling (Judy Lee) is on hand in a small but important role as one of the Eight Masters, with a surprising secret in her past, and she has one particularly ferocious fight with Carter. The ending is quite satisfying and provides a fitting, if bittersweet, resolution to the entire Bronzemen series.
Release dates for the film are alternately given as 1974, 1976, 1977, and 1982, with 1976 being the most likely year. The film features an original Chinese music score rather than the patchwork soundtrack of ripped-off music cues that most English-dubbed kung fu films are saddled with. This unsung kung fu masterpiece marks a real discovery that will delight and surprise the genre's many fans.
The 8 masters
coltras3512 December 2022
Shiao Chieh is left to a monastery when his family is killed, and grows up to be an incredible martial artist. He passes a gruelling and weird series of tests, most of which consist of being whacked by bronzemen, and goes out into the material world. He returns to live with his blind mother and his cousin, Ming Chu, who keeps being visited by an older dark stranger. Shiao Chien soon discovers Ming Chu is not really his cousin, but the niece of a man whose earnest wish is to see him die.
Carter Wong stars in this decent Kung fu film, which has a competent mix of drama, Shaolin philosophy, conflict and action - it can be a bit confusing, but it's well-paced and the story is engaging enough. Plus you have a gracious hero who resists giving into fight the 8 masters. When tragedy strikes he decides to take on the challenge- the last minutes is full of fights, some bordering on the fantastical side like walking on a chain held by the opponent and facing screaming ultra pale-faced looking banshees who look like rejects of a local Goth band.
Carter Wong stars in this decent Kung fu film, which has a competent mix of drama, Shaolin philosophy, conflict and action - it can be a bit confusing, but it's well-paced and the story is engaging enough. Plus you have a gracious hero who resists giving into fight the 8 masters. When tragedy strikes he decides to take on the challenge- the last minutes is full of fights, some bordering on the fantastical side like walking on a chain held by the opponent and facing screaming ultra pale-faced looking banshees who look like rejects of a local Goth band.
Another Classic Kuo & Wong Team Up!
Movie-Misfit13 September 2019
Sometimes known as the third entry to famed director, Joseph Kuo's fun 'Bronzemen' films, this little classic is one I got very early on in my collection (I mean, like 30 years ago) as the video artwork really had won me over!
Even in its 4:3 presentation, cropped with bad picture, I still enjoyed it. Thankfully, many years later, Hollywood East had released it here in the UK on DVD and I thought - why not..?
And yes, its still a lot of fun!
Even with a run-of-the-mill story line, there is still plenty to enjoy here as Carter Wong takes on the Bronzemen of Shaolin in his final days of training, before heading out to find his mother and pay a debt in the form of a challenge by the wicked 8 Masters.
I really like Joseph Kuo's films. They always entertain, have a real classic feel to them, and usually a great cast. The 8 Masters does not disappoint!
With a constant stream of fun kung fu battles, you really can't get bored watching it. The acting is pretty decent, and handheld camera work adds a little something different to it all. At the time, studios like Shaw Brothers and the new Golden Harvest were delivering very polished work - wide, still shots, with the aid of tripods, cranes and dollies. This was somewhat fresh in its approach...
A classic in to many, I wouldn't imagine its in a lot of top tens - but its still worth a watch if you are a fan of old school chop socky!
Even in its 4:3 presentation, cropped with bad picture, I still enjoyed it. Thankfully, many years later, Hollywood East had released it here in the UK on DVD and I thought - why not..?
And yes, its still a lot of fun!
Even with a run-of-the-mill story line, there is still plenty to enjoy here as Carter Wong takes on the Bronzemen of Shaolin in his final days of training, before heading out to find his mother and pay a debt in the form of a challenge by the wicked 8 Masters.
I really like Joseph Kuo's films. They always entertain, have a real classic feel to them, and usually a great cast. The 8 Masters does not disappoint!
With a constant stream of fun kung fu battles, you really can't get bored watching it. The acting is pretty decent, and handheld camera work adds a little something different to it all. At the time, studios like Shaw Brothers and the new Golden Harvest were delivering very polished work - wide, still shots, with the aid of tripods, cranes and dollies. This was somewhat fresh in its approach...
A classic in to many, I wouldn't imagine its in a lot of top tens - but its still worth a watch if you are a fan of old school chop socky!
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