Clan Feuds (1982)

Like so many Ku Long novel adaptations, trying to summarise the plot of CLAN FEUDS is futile... at least, beyond the admiral summary already provided by the title. There's enough plot and enough characters to fill half a dozen films, but as long as you don't stress about the details it all makes sense.

Production values for the film are pretty high, creating the sort of lusciously artificial fantasy world that Shaw Brothers did better than anybody else. Ti Lung leads the cast in the familiar role of elegant, stoic swordsman, paired with Lo Meng as a younger and more headstrong clan member. There are many fine actors joining and supporting them, with the brief appearances for Philip Ko and Yeung Jing-Jing being a particular highlight.

There's plenty of action, well choreographed by Yuen Cheung-Yan - the old school style of sword waving and trampolines clearly looks a bit dated compared to some of the work that was being done at the time, but it works for this sort of film (if you like that sort of thing).

Inevitably it has to be compared to the films of Chor Yuen, the Ku Long adapter extraordinaire. I'd say it's not as good as his best, but certainly better than his worst, and a worthwhile addition to your collection if you've enjoyed Chor Yuen's films.