The Proud Twins

I was first exposed to the story of the Proud Twins as adapted in The Force of Buddha's Palm comics. It is a sweeping tale of revenge full of almost operatic characters and many twists and turns leading to the eventual climax. What I really love about this Chor Yuen directed feature for Shaw Brothers was the inclusion of the comedic talents of Alexander Fu Sheng. The highlighting of the comedic aspects really helps balance the overall story, which at its core is quite grim and dark. Another thing I really loved in this adaptation was the use of sets and the production design going into them. Many of the the scenes feature some stunning set pieces that lend an air of idealized realism, much like sansui landscape paintings, to the world, really making the story feel like it lives in some ethereal and magical realm. While they may look dated to modern eyes, it still holds charm to my eyes.

The basic storyline follows two brothers separated due to circumstances revealed as the story unfolds, Jiang Xiaoyu, played by Alexander Fu Sheng, and Hua Wuque, played by My Wai Kwok. Xiaoyu, raised by The Ten Villains in an abusive environment eventually outwits and escapes his captors, and makes his way out into the world seeking revenge for the death of his parents. Wuque, raised by Hua Palace and unaware of Xiaoyu's relationship with himself, has been tasked by the leader of Hua Palace to hunt down and kill Xiaoyu. With many twists and turns, betrayals and reveals, the story progresses to climactic battle in the mountains as the two brother's stories unfold.

Alexander Fu Sheng really holds the story together, really playing up the mischievous and playful side of Xiaoyu while also showing his superb athleticism and Kung Fu skills. Had Fu Sheng not tragically passed away in 1982, this film would have been excellent proof to show him as a prime competitor to Jackie Chan in making Kung Fu comedy.

While The Proud Twins may not be Chor Yuen's best adaptation of a Wu Xia novels for Shaw Brothers, it certainly is the funniest and most charming.