Dir/Scr: Law Chi-hung
Prod Co: Tai Shing
Co-starring: Ng Kwan-lai, Connie Chan Po-chu, Lan Chi Pak, Yam Bing-yee, Tam Lan-hing
1960 / Colour / D Beta / Cantonese / 105min

 

Based on the renowned opera by Chin Lei Kui and Pak Kui-wing, the film stars Yam Kim-fai as a prince who has fallen in love with palace girl Wan (Ng Kwan-lai). When Wan gets pregnant, she is banished from the palace while the prince is forced to marry a princess (Yam Bing-yee) from a neighbouring kingdom. Years later, the prince – now the emperor – encounters his illegitimate son (Connie Chan Po-chu in crossdress), now a teenager. Recognising his talent in martial arts, the emperor decides to take him into the palace. However, what he doesn't know is that his son is determined to get revenge for his mother's suffering. Yam shows just the right amount of restraint as the cowardly emperor, stepping back to let her disciple Connie Chan dominate the screen in their electrifying confrontation scene. Yet, the screen icon still manages to be magnetic and charismatic as ever.

The Betacam tape used for this screening is a sole copy; the image colour has faded to red. We appreciate your understanding.