Peking opera master Yu Zhanyuan founded the China Drama Academy in 1949, where many major Hong Kong action stars, choreographers, and directors honed their skills in traditional opera-style acrobatics. The late Alex Law co-wrote the script with Mabel Cheung for his directorial debut, adapting Yu's story for the big screen. The film portrays the strenuous training process Yu’s protégés, the ‘Seven Little Fortunes’, had to go through, as well as the tragic experiences of the older generation of opera performers. After the academy’s closure due to dwindling interest in the traditional art form, Yu’s apprentices, now full-fledged adults, all embark on different journeys—some of course becoming legendary action stars. Law’s passionate, nostalgic portrayal lovingly depicts now-bygone urban landmarks such as Lee Theatre, Tak Wan Teahouse, and Lai Chi Kok Amusement Park. Sammo Hung plays his mentor Yu, earning him the Best Actor accolade at the 8th Hong Kong Film Awards. The interweaving of onscreen fiction with real-life, behind-the-scenes stories makes this film a sincere tribute to action filmmakers and their arduous training. Hung later directed the segment ‘Exercise’ in Septet: The Story of Hong Kong (2022), based on his personal memories of martial arts and opera training as part of the ‘Seven Little Fortunes’. He ‘passes on’ the role of Yu to his son, Timmy Hung—a callback, perhaps, to Painted Faces.

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