Hong Xiguan zhi Shaolin wu zu

Hong Xiguan zhi Shaolin wu zu (also known as Hung Hei-Koon: Shaolin's Five Founders, Legend of the Future Shaolin and by the US video title: Legend of the Red Dragon) is a 1994 kung fu film from Hong Kong by famous Wushu and international film star Jet Li. It was directed by Jing Wong, and Corey Yuen, and produced by Helen Li, Jet Li, and Wai Sum Shia. This film showcases Hung Hei-Kwun's exploits as a rebel against the Qing government. Unlike Li's Fong Sai-yuk movies this film has a much darker tone, Hung (Li) hardly ever shows affection to his son or to any one for that matter, and speaks in the same tone through out the whole movie. The same goes for his son, which mirrors the little boy from Lone Wolf and Cub from his hair to his facial expressions. Also it should be noted that in the beginning after Hung's town is burned, his child manages to survive. Though an infant Hung gives him the choice by choosing a toy or sword to either die or be with his mother or to follow Hung in his quest to save the Han people from the Qing government. This same event happens in the Lone Wolf and Cub manga in a different context and in Japan instead of China. The action is plentiful and not dismissive but nothing new to Jet Li fans besides some quite awkward spear extending. Most of the action is aided by wires. This film was not received well by critics nor the audience.

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