The Iron-Fisted Monk


The Iron-Fisted Monk is a 1977 Hong Kong martial arts film written and directed by Sammo Hung in his directorial debut, who also starred in the lead role. It co-stars Chan Sing and James Tien. The film was released on 25 August 1977 in Hong Kong.

Plot

Hawker, is sent to the Shaolin Temple by the Iron Fisted Monk, after he saves Hawker from a beating by the Manchus. After being trained by his master he runs away from the temple, only to be confronted by his master and forced to take the four tests. Whilst this is happening, an official is indulging in his passion for raping women, and is virtually above the law as he is a powerful Manchu officer. He begins by raping Liang's sister, who then commits suicide and makes Liang a very angry man. Liang takes his revenge by killing one of those pesky Manchus but everyone thinks Hawker is responsible.
Both Liang and Hawker go to meet the Iron Fisted Monk who convinces Hawker to teach all the workers at the dye factory kung fu, so they can defend themselves against the Manchus. The final act involves the Manchus' butchering of the workers from the dye factory, kill Liang's wife and Liang's mother. When Liang eventually dies from his wounds, both Hawker and the Iron Fisted Monk swear vengeance on the Manchus and it is delivered.

Alternate/deleted scenes

There is a scene where Official tries to rape Liang's wife, Ah Chen, she was hit multiple times caused her death before she was getting raped by Official, director/producer decided not to include this scene because it was too violenced.

Cast

Note: There are two different actresses named Chu Ching in the film, one portrays Liang's wife and the other portrays Liang's sister.

Release

The film grossed HK$2,283,594.40 during its 15-week theatrical run. It was released on DVD on 29 October 2001 in the UK and 7 September 2004 in the US.

Reception

Almar Haflidason of BBC Online rated it 4/5 stars and recommended it to Sammo Hung fans. J. Doyle Wallis of DVD Talk rated it 3.5/5 stars and wrote, "Iron-Fisted Monk moves briskly with some solid fights and a decent story". David Johnson of DVD Verdict wrote, "A lackadaisical start gives way to a relentless hand-to-hand spectacle of zaniness".