Hong Kong martial arts icon Sammo Hung, along with the prolific Japanese martial arts actor Yasuaki Kurata and renowned action director Kenji Tanigaki, engaged in an insightful discussion about the nuances of martial arts cinema, sharing captivating behind-the-scenes anecdotes during a significant event in Tokyo.
The trio appeared as part of an engaging panel titled “Martial Arts on the Silver Screen: Past, Present, and Future” during TIFFCOM, an influential marketplace held in conjunction with the prestigious Tokyo International Film Festival, where industry professionals gather to explore innovations and trends.
“I’ve devoted my life to martial arts since I was young, learning from various masters, and I’ve worked tirelessly to honor and pass on this incredible legacy,” Hung shared with heartfelt conviction. “The core essence of martial arts in Hong Kong lies in its spirit and our unwavering work ethic. We pour our hearts and souls into our film projects, aiming always to convey this dynamic spirit to the next generation of martial artists.”
Hung stands as a pivotal figure in Hong Kong cinema, boasting an impressive filmography of more than 200 films and significantly elevating the territory’s martial arts genre, making it globally recognized and cherished by audiences everywhere.
His recent project, Soi Cheang’s Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In, achieved monumental success by becoming the highest-grossing domestic film of all time in Hong Kong this year. Additionally, it has been nominated as Hong Kong’s Oscar entry for the prestigious international feature film category.
Kurata revealed that his journey into Hong Kong’s vibrant film scene started in 1969 when he sought auditions, feeling disheartened by the lack of significant roles available to him in Japan.
“I was advised to venture to Hong Kong for auditions, and at first, one of my friends expressed concern, worrying I was being conned,” Kurata recalled with a touch of humor. His leap of faith paid off when he landed a role in the iconic Shaw Brothers Studio kungfu film Angry Guest, albeit had to borrow money from his parents to cover his travel and living expenses while pursuing his passion in Hong Kong.
Kurata observed a striking difference between Hong Kong action films and Japanese counterparts, noting that martial arts were the central focus of many films in Hong Kong, whereas they were merely an accessory in Japanese films.
“I was deeply impressed by the caliber of martial arts showcased in Hong Kong,” Kurata said, his admiration evident. “In Japan, martial arts were only occasionally integrated into films, but in Hong Kong, they were the heart and soul of the cinema. A dedicated team of over 100 individuals poured their lives into these projects, fueled by a shared martial arts spirit, which is precisely why Hong Kong martial arts films achieved worldwide acclaim. It’s noteworthy that several American action films later adopted this enriched spirit.”
Kurata was offered an annual contract for his work as an actor in Hong Kong but opted to embrace a more flexible approach, working on a project-by-project basis. During his time in the industry, he formed lasting friendships with legends like Sammo Hung and Jackie Chan.
“They approached their craft with an unwavering dedication to perfection. I distinctly remember shooting one scene over 60 times, such was their meticulous attention to detail,” Kurata remarked, pride evident in his words. “At 78, I remain in excellent shape, a testament to the years of rigorous martial arts training I experienced while working in Hong Kong films.”
Tanigaki, who honed his filmmaking skills at Kurata’s martial arts academy in Osaka, engaged in various martial arts disciplines and sword-fighting techniques.
“However, during my time filming in Kyoto, I struggled to find opportunities to apply those skills, prompting me to explore other avenues,” Tanigaki explained. “At that time, many masters relocated to Hong Kong, as it was the epicenter for kungfu and martial arts cinema. It was akin to baseball players aspiring to play in the U.S. to reach their full potential. Motivated by the need to learn from the best, I recognized that Hong Kong had a well-established system with action directors employing proven methodologies, and I knew I had to immerse myself in that environment.”
Tanigaki recently completed production on his highly-anticipated martial arts film The Furious, which was shot in Thailand. Additionally, he served as the stunt coordinator for Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In and has collaborated frequently with prominent Hong Kong directors throughout his successful 20-year career in the industry.
He further noted that in Hong Kong, many martial arts stars like Hung possess comprehensive knowledge of the filmmaking process beyond action choreography, which encompasses aspects such as camera work and editing, thereby enhancing the overall quality of their martial arts films.
When pressed about the legacy and mentorship of martial arts legends like himself, Hung’s demeanor shifted, becoming more contemplative and serious.
“Even if I impart my knowledge to the new generation, what will be the results for them?” Hung mused thoughtfully. “In the past, the floodgates were open for kungfu films, but now we see only a handful produced annually. A genuine interest and a strategic framework for creating these films must be established to facilitate opportunities for aspiring filmmakers. I aim to teach them following the principles that my masters instilled in me, but they also need tangible opportunities and paths to success.”
“Keep supporting Hong Kong films by buying tickets and inviting your friends to experience them with you,” Hung added, passionately urging his audience to cultivate a vibrant film community.
