King Hu’s first film made after leaving Shaw Brothers, is a rousing period tale about a heroic trio who defy the ruthless secret security forces of a despot to protect a family of political exiles.
King Hu’s first film, made in Taiwan after leaving Shaw Brothers, Dragon Inn is a rousing period tale about a heroic trio who defy the ruthless secret security forces of a despot to protect a family of political exiles. An exquisite game of cat-and-mouse ensues as each side tests the martial skills of the other. With his new freedom, Hu invigorates the swordplay genre by drawing on Beijing Opera traditions, choreographing the film to the percussive rhythms of the traditional stage. He also began to assemble a group of loyal actors whose careers he helped launch. One of these actors, Miao Tien, would go on to appear prominently in Tsai Ming-liang’s films, including Tsai’s tribute to this phase of Hu’s career, the poignant Goodbye, Dragon Inn.
$10 / $8 students and seniors / Free for Harvard students
Phone: 617-496-3211
Email: bgravely@fas.harvard.edu
2022/10/01 - 2022/10/01
Harvard Film Archive
Harvard Film Archive Cinematheque, Cambridge, MA 02138
Although parking in Cambridge is difficult (most of the surrounding streets have restricted parking for Cambridge residents only), metered parking on Broadway and Harvard Streets, as well as the rest of Harvard Square, is free after 8pm. Film-goers are encouraged to use public transportation, particularly the MBTA Red Line.
This film has English subtitles.