Watch Ode to Gallantry

Ode to Gallantry is a 1982 martial arts film directed by Chor Yuen and produced by the Shaw Brothers Studio. The film is based on the popular wuxia novel "Lu Xiaofeng" by Gu Long, and stars Phillip Chung-Fung Kwok as the titular character, Lu Xiaofeng. The storyline revolves around Lu Xiaofeng, a notorious swordsman who is known for his mastery of the Qinggong technique, which allows him to leap great distances and run across water. Xiaofeng's reputation attracts the attention of two warring factions who seek his services in recovering a valuable jade pendant. Reluctant to get involved in their conflict, Xiaofeng sets out on his own to recover the pendant and uncover the truth behind its mysterious powers.

Along the way, Xiaofeng encounters a host of colorful and complex characters, including a group of deadly assassins, a treacherous sorcerer, and a beautiful courtesan named Hua Manlou, played by Hui-Ling Liu. As Xiaofeng draws closer to his goal, he must navigate his own inner demons and confront his tragic past, including the betrayal of his one true love.

The film is notable for its stunning fight sequences, which showcase the acrobatic and balletic style of Hong Kong cinema at its finest. The fight choreography, orchestrated by the legendary Lau Kar-leung, is both breathtaking and innovative, utilizing a variety of weapons and fighting styles to create a sense of fluidity and grace.

In addition to its action-packed set pieces, Ode to Gallantry also features a strong emotional through-line, exploring themes of love, loyalty, and redemption. The performances by the cast are uniformly excellent, with Kwok delivering a strong and nuanced portrayal of the enigmatic Xiaofeng.

Overall, Ode to Gallantry is a fitting tribute to the wuxia genre and stands as a testament to the creativity and artistry of the Hong Kong film industry. With its unforgettable characters, stirring action, and poignant themes, it remains a classic of martial arts cinema and a must-see for fans of the genre.

Ode to Gallantry is a 1982 action movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 23 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.4.