Watch Shanghai 13

Shanghai 13 is a 1984 action-packed movie set in the 1930s era of Shanghai. The movie's director, Chang Cheh, is known to be one of the best martial arts filmmakers in the world. The movie features stars Kuan Tai Chen, Jimmy Wang Yu, and Danny Lee. The story revolves around the pursuit of the Shangrao Buddha by the Japanese and Chinese warlords. The Buddha is believed to grant invincibility to the ones who possess it. Amidst the chaos, thirteen warriors come together to capture the Buddha and take it to Nanjing, where it can be safeguarded from the Japanese.

The movie begins with a group of Japanese soldiers led by Colonel Ishikawa (Masashi Ishibashi) attacking a tea house in Shanghai. The soldiers are in search of the Buddhist artifact, the Shangrao Buddha, which they believe to be in possession of the proprietor. During their search, they kill the proprietor, whose last message was a cryptic warning about the Buddha.

The action shifts to Yang Ruowei (Kuan Tai Chen), a former member of the secret police, who along with Guo Zhui (Danny Lee) is tasked to track down and capture the Buddha, which is believed to be in possession of a wealthy businessman named Tan.

Unbeknownst to them, the Japanese are also after Tan and the Buddha to fulfil their own agenda. In their quest, they employ the services of an assassin named Yang Xiao, who is tasked with eliminating anyone who stands in their way.

Meanwhile, some members of the Green Gang decide to take it upon themselves to protect the Buddha and hand it over to the Nationalist government. However, their intentions are not pure as they aim to use the Buddha to help them attain power.

Inevitably, all these parties collide and set up a thrilling action-packed finale that leaves no room for the faint-hearted. The movie's action scenes are well-coordinated, with exceptional choreography by Ching Siu-tung. The fight scenes are cleverly crafted and are highly entertaining, with outstanding performances from the cast.

Shanghai 13 showcases a wide range of weapons and fighting styles, from bare hands to guns, swords, and even spears. The martial art technique exhibited by the cast is mesmerizing, with Jimmy Wang Yu's character, Laotou, bringing his charisma and charm to the screen.

The movie's fast pace and the intricate plot keep the audience engaged throughout. It is a blend of suspense, action, and intrigue, with underlying themes of loyalty, honour, and sacrifice. The soundtrack is excellent and adds to the overall mood of the movie.

Furthermore, the movie's portrayal of 1930's Shanghai is commendable, with authentic sets and costumes that transport the viewer back in time.

Overall, Shanghai 13 is a must-see for anyone who enjoys action thrillers, martial arts, and historical dramas. With its superb cast, compelling storyline, and breathtaking action scenes, it is no wonder that it remains a classic in the martial arts genre.

Shanghai 13 is a 1984 action movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 26 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.1.