The Cub Tiger from Kwang Tung (1973)

The Cub Tiger from Kwang Tung Poster
Original Title: 刁手怪招

Hsiao Hu has been secretly training in martial arts, as his father (Tien Feng) has forbidden him. Later, some local store owners ask Ah to help protect them from a greedy Chinese extortion ring. Ah discovers that the crime lord behind the extortion had killed his father years before and is determined for revenge.

Film Overview
"The Cub Tiger from Kwang Tung" is a Chinese martial arts film launched in 1973. Directed by Ngai Hoi-fung and launched by Asia Television Ltd, this movie is likewise known by other names such as "The Cub Tiger" and "Master with Cracked Fingers". The movie is highly regarded for showcasing early footage of the famous Jackie Chan, before he ended up being a worldwide recognized film star.

Plot Summary
The movie's narrative is woven around the life of Ah Lung, played by Jackie Chan. Encased in a distinct combination of martial arts, humor, and bold action series, the motion picture effectively captures the essence of eastern fight culture. Ah Lung is a carefree boy living in a little town in southern China's Kwang Tung province, dutifully providing meals from his dad's restaurant to regional merchants.

Against his daddy's orders, who wishes for him to avoid martial engagements and live a tranquil life, Ah Lung becomes curious about martial arts. He secretly observes and practices moves that he sees from the coaches-to-be and masters who patronize his father's restaurant. Lung's casual training sessions acquire him an unanticipated tutor-- an old beggar who ends up being an accomplished martial arts master.

All at once, the plot thickens with the intro of two atrocious characters-- a local martial arts master who is envious of Lung's prowess, and a ruthless businessman who had a long-running rivalry with Ah Lung's dad.

Advancement and Style
"The Cub Tiger from Kwang Tung" is noted for its development and recording style. The movie combines slapstick comedy with interesting and ingenious martial arts sequences, a particular feature that would concern define much of Jackie Chan's later work.

In spite of Chan being a novice star at the time, the film is punctuated with his extremely versatile and acrobatic combat scenes, humor, and a persistent subplot involving his romantic interest towards a gorgeous young woman.

Following an unconventional training program administered by the beggar, Ah Lung's skills quickly improve. His newly found martial expertise is tested when he is forced to deal with the villains to safeguard his family and the female he enjoys.

Crucial Reception
The movie garnered substantial attention due to the presence of Jackie Chan, who represented intense, stunning stunts. For many fans, "The Cub Tiger from Kwang Tung" remains a remarkable peek into Chan's early profession, showcasing the raw talent that would later make him an international icon.

Despite the film's low-budget production worth and occasionally choppy story circulation, it has a distinct appeal. It evocatively revives the authentic old-school martial arts movie aesthetic appeals, making it a treasured artifact among connoisseurs of the category.

Conclusion
In conclusion, "The Cub Tiger from Kwang Tung" is noteworthy for Jackie Chan's early performance that highlighted his highly stimulated martial arts skills and signature humor. While the film might lack the polish of later productions, it uses a peek into the humble starts of one of the most prominent figures in cinematic history.

Top Cast

  • Jackie Chan (small)
    Jackie Chan
    Hsiao Hu
  • Chen Hung-Lieh (small)
    Chen Hung-Lieh
    Chow Bin
  • Shu Pei-Pei (small)
    Shu Pei-Pei
    Hsiao Lam
  • Tien Feng (small)
    Tien Feng
    Lung's Foster Father
  • Hon Kwok-Choi (small)
    Hon Kwok-Choi
    Little Frog
  • Ma Chien-Tang (small)
    Ma Chien-Tang
    Chow's thug
  • Kwan Chung (small)
    Kwan Chung
    Lai Shan, 3rd Brother
  • Tai San (small)
    Tai San
    Hsiao Lee, 3rd Brother's Thug
  • Hui Gam
    3rd Brother's Thug
  • Sze-Ma Wah-Lung (small)
    Sze-Ma Wah-Lung
    Foster Father's Friend
  • Gam Lau (small)
    Gam Lau
    Foster Father's Friend's Wife