Hong Kong Action Cinema

by Bey Logan

This is the most colorful and entertaining history of Hong Kong action cinema available. Bey Logan traces the genre from its genesis in the late 1940s until the 1990s, enhancing his story with... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0879516631
• ISBN13: 9780879516635
• Release Date: May 1996
• Publisher: Overlook Books
• Length: 192 Pages
• Weight: 1.55 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 8.4" x 10.8"
• Age Range: 18 years and up
• Grade Range: Grade 12 and higher

Customer Reviews

Timeless Reference Book

I've had this book since it came out in 1996, and I STILL go back to it a lot. It's a fantastic overview of HK action movies, and it covers the early origins of HK cinema, 60's movies, Bruce Lee, Shaw Brothers, Golden Harvest, Jackie and Sammo, Horror, fighting women, new wave wuxia, gunplay movies, etc., and it goes right up to about 1995. There's lots of various "top 10" lists of movies and fight scenes, and it gives a smattering of the historical context of some of these films and their subject matter. Since this book was published, we've seen the advent of DVD, and a greatly increased availability of these films. When this book came out, it was almost impossible to find decent quality versions of many Shaw Brothers films, but since the Celestial remastering in the early 2000's, there are now literally hundreds of Shaw movies available in pristine widescreen prints with original language. Similarly, there are many more Golden Harvest movies, and independents available as well. Given the luxury of choices we have now, Logan's book may not seem too in-depth; it's not, and it wasn't meant to be. But still (pun intended), this book really puts the whole HK movie tradition in perspective, and gives you the context for appreciating many of the films that are out now. I've found it very useful when I want to explore a subgenre that I wasn't too familiar with, like Hong Kong horror: this book gives you a nice background, as well as a listing of the classics of the genre for you to seek out. In a nutshell, this book doesn't cover slightly more obscure movies, themes or actors, but if you're looking for a solid baseline reference that covers the most important and influential movies, stars, directors and trends of HK action cinema, this is a valuable addition to your library.

The best volume available on HK cinema.

This book is a treasure trove. It is a must-read for any fan of the genre. Bey Logan is truly an expert on HK cinema, and martial arts, as well. His enthusiasm for the material is infectious, and his insights are spot-on. Not to mention the wealth of inside detail--this isn't a Westerner's view from the outside- Bey is actually an insider who knows well and has worked on films with many of the actors and creators he writes about. It is too bad this book is so old- he should put out an expanded, encyclopedic work. Scoop this book up used before it becomes impossible to find. PS. Don't miss his commentary tracks on all of the Dragon Dynasty DVDs--they are fantastic!

(does backflip to papery rustling sound)

Realizing (again) that i don't have to settle for american crud, i dug this book out and marveled again. Color, b/w photos, comprehensive listings (to '95), good taste, smooth and infectiously enthusiastic writing - A+!

shaw brothers (1970-1999

I would like more information on shaw brothers martial arts films from 1970-1999.Starting with the actors,directors and shaw brothers them self.A brief biogarphy about each one.

The essential Hong Kong Cinema Book!

Everything you ever needed to know about Hong Kong Action Cinema is in this book. Jackie Chan, Michelle Yeoh, Jet Li, and of course Bruce Lee! Its all there. A great book for the coffee table or to bring to the video store with ya. Its great, and can be read and re-read. I especially love when he ranks the best fight scenes!