Adapting a novel for the screen is always a complex task, especially when the work comes from martial arts legend Louis Cha Leung-yung, better known as Jin Yong. His books are not only lengthy but feature intricate plots with numerous characters, making them more suited for television adaptations, which have been done extensively in Hong Kong and mainland China. However, when his works are adapted for film, the challenge is to distill the vast narrative into a single storyline.
In the case of Tsui Hark’s Swordsman II, for example, the film is based on just 12 pages from the novel The Smiling, Proud Wanderer, showcasing how filmmakers often narrow the story down for cinematic purposes. Tsui also directed Legends of the Condor Heroes: The Gallants, based on seven chapters from the novel The Legend of the Condor Heroes. However, the film adaptations by Chang Cheh, particularly The Brave Archer series, took a different approach, cramming as much of the novel as possible into the films. The narrative complexity in these films often left viewers puzzled, with many characters and stories being rushed.
The early Brave Archer films feature an ever-changing cast, with key roles played by different actors in subsequent installments, further adding to the confusion. For instance, in the first film, the role of Huang Rong is played by Tien Niu, but in the sequels, it is portrayed by Niu Niu, causing significant inconsistency. In The Brave Archer and His Mate (part four), Alexander Fu Sheng, who plays the hero Guo Jing in the first three films, is replaced by Philip Kwok Chun-fung, adding to the bewilderment.
Chang Cheh, who wanted to remain faithful to the novel, had a vision of portraying the complex storyline accurately, yet the result was a dense, sometimes overwhelming narrative. Chang, known for his strong presence at Shaw Brothers studios, sought to respect Cha’s original work, but the practical constraints of cinema, such as time limits for screenings, forced the filmmakers to trim a significant amount of footage, leading to scenes that felt hurried.
Despite the flaws, the Brave Archer films are remembered for their entertainment value. They showcased spectacular martial arts choreography, mystical kung fu techniques, and memorable characters. However, they also marked a decline in Chang’s filmmaking as he returned to Hong Kong after a period working in Taiwan. Though imperfect, the films are still cherished for their nostalgic appeal and their unique take on Jin Yong’s legendary novels.
READ MORE: