Drunken Master
dir. Yuen Woo-ping · 1978
Feature
Coming of Age
Mood
Adventurous / Comedic
Look
vibrant colors with dynamic action sequences
Structure
episodic with a focus on character growth
Plot
After getting into trouble, a mischievous young man is sent to train under a brutal, but slovenly old beggar, who teaches him the secret of the Drunken Fist.
Why watch
"Drunken Master" is a delightful blend of action and comedy that showcases the whimsical journey of a young man's transformation through the art of Drunken Fist. With its playful choreography and humorous mentor-student dynamic, this film invites viewers to revel in the folly of youth and the joy of self-discovery.
Cultural context
Hong Kong cinema of the late 1970sthe rise of martial arts popularity in the Westcomedic interpretations of traditional kung futhe influence of genre-blending in indie films