Wuxia Unleashed: Leon Hunt & Chris Hamm on Martial Arts and Myth

Cinema Scope: Bridging Genres, Subgenres, & Movements

In this inaugural episode of Cinema Scope, host Andy Nelson is joined by professors Leon Hunt and Chris Hamm to explore the captivating world of wuxia, a Chinese film genre that blends philosophy, action, and legend. They discuss the key elements that define wuxia, such as the chivalrous heroes, period settings, and fantastical elements, as well as the concept of jianghu, a unique world within wuxia stories.

Leon and Chris trace the evolution of wuxia from its roots in early Chinese literature to its influence on other genres, including Hollywood blockbusters. They also highlight notable works like A Touch of Zen, The Bride with White Hair, and Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, analyzing their contributions to the development and popularity of wuxia cinema.

This engaging and informative episode will deepen your appreciation for the richness and complexity of the wuxia genre, inspiring you to explore more of these captivating films.

Film Sundries

• Recommended and Discussed Movies
  • Come Drink With Me on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
  • Golden Swallow on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
  • The New One-Armed Swordsman on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
  • A Touch of Zen on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
  • The Magic Blade on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
  • Last Hurrah for Chivalry on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
  • The Butterfly Murders on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
  • Swordsman II on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
  • The Bride with White Hair on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
  • Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
• Our Letterboxd List
• Dr. Leon Hunt’s books
  • Kung Fu Cult Masters
  • Mario Bava: The Artisan as Italian Horror Auteur
• Chris Hamm’s books
  • The Unworthy Scholar from Pingjiang: Republican-Era Martial Arts Fiction
  • Paper Swordsmen: Jin Yong and the Modern Chinese Martial Arts Novel

• (00:00) - Welcome to Cinema Scope • Wuxia
• (02:26) - Our Guests’ Background in Wuxia
• (05:21) - Why Wuxia?
• (06:53) - How, Why, and Longevity
• (10:57) - What Is Wuxia?
• (17:02) - Writings and History
• (20:52) - Kung Fu vs. Wuxia
• (25:31) - Key Characteristics
• (34:19) - Evolving
• (36:45) - Come Drink With Me
• (47:24) - The New One-Armed Swordsman
• (53:56) - A Touch of Zen
• (01:00:01) - Swordsman II
• (01:04:44) - Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon
• (01:10:06) - Influences on Other Genres
• (01:13:32) - Fluctuating Interest
• (01:14:23) - Wrap Up

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