Billy Chan Wui-Ngai: All men are brothers – The true color of heroes (1993)

Cast: Tony Leung Ka-Fai, Joey Wong, Elvis Tsui, Lau Ching Wan, Lam Wai
Based on part of the old Chinese novel Shuihuzhuan (usually translated Water Margin) this movie follows the fortunes of Imperial Guard Instructor Lin Chong, framed by the evil Marshal Gao Qiu and betrayed by his colleague Lu Qian. Befriending renegade officer-turned-monk Lu Da, Lin Chong finds himself facing the loss of all he holds dear, but puts in some heavy duty martial arts and leaping about before the closing credits.
Like most Chinese wire-flying costume epics, it's best to "check your brain at the door" and just go along for the ride. What makes "All Men are Brothers" so entertaining is its rich characterisation and elaborate sets.
The story centers around an honest Song Dynasty official, Lin Chong. Lin Chong is a martial arts expert (naturally) and is widely admired (and therefore widely envied). The evil "Great General" Gao Qiu's nasty son is going about the countryside terrorising farmers and raping women. This son eventually forces his attentions on Lin Chong's wife, played by the beautiful Joey Wong. Of course, Lin Chong must defend her honor, which proves politically disasterous.
Like most films in this genre, the plot won't stand up to close scrutiny. The theme of the film is fairly obvious (brotherhood conquers all) but the lack of any subtly is easily made up in top-notch acting, spectacular stunts, elaborate costumes, hearty kung fu music, and the wonderful comraderie between Lin Chong and Lu Da. Lu Da is the definitive drunken monk with a bad attitude. Interestingly, most of the fights are NOT between enemies, but between friends trying to win each other's admiration.
"All Men are Brothers" is a must-see for fans of wire-flying fu flicks. This film is an ideal midnight movie to see with YOUR sworn "brothers" (and "sisters")!






PW: malamute