Kid from Kwang Tung Blu-ray Review

The Blu-ray presentation of "Kid from Kwang Tung" by 88 Films provides an impressive visual experience that should satisfy fans of classic martial arts cinema. The film is presented in an AVC encoded 1080p transfer with a 2.36:1 aspect ratio, derived from the original camera negative. Despite hints that the transfer might not be completely new, the video quality effectively captures the essence of the movie's pristine elements. The vivid color palette, especially prominent in midrange and close-up scenes, enhances the visual appeal, although there are slight dips in image quality characterized by roughened grain and decreased clarity that do not correlate with any lighting variations. Additionally, some subtle anamorphic distortions can be observed.

The detail and definition stand out notably well in this presentation, with the fine grain reproduction and unfiltered detail allowing for an immersive viewing experience. The brilliant colors, notably the attention-commanding orange in the Rooster costume, contribute markedly to the overall vibrant look of the film. This Blu-ray release boasts a consistent contrast level and a veritable improvement in clarity over previous DVD versions, making it one of 88 Films' strong efforts for a Shaw Brothers production.

Overall, "Kid from Kwang Tung" on Blu-ray offers a dynamic and cinematic presentation, demonstrating a significant leap in image quality over its predecessors. While occasional fluctuations in quality are present, these moments are minimal and do not detract significantly from the overall enjoyment of the spectacle. Both casual viewers and ardent fans of the genre are likely to appreciate the visual enhancements that bring this action-packed movie into contemporary high definition.

The Blu-ray edition of "Kid from Kwang Tung" offers a robust audio presentation with LPCM 2.0 Mono tracks available in both Cantonese and English. Both tracks provide a generally secure support for dialogue, effects, and score. However, some users have noticed a slightly thin and silvery sound on the high end, occasionally leading to momentary sibilance. This can be a minor distraction but does not significantly detract from the overall quality. Synchronization is notably loose, which might appeal more to viewers with a penchant for comedic timing inherent in traditional Kung Fu dubs. Optional English subtitles are provided, ensuring accessibility for non-Cantonese speakers.

The original Cantonese and English dub both offer strong musical fidelity and dynamic range, with effective sound effects and robust recording quality that stand out among Shaw Brothers productions. The Cantonese track maintains a more traditional and straight-laced approach, while the English dub provides a lighter, more entertaining experience. This might be preferable for those familiar with the English dubs of classic Hong Kong Kung Fu films. The optional English subtitles are well integrated within the 2.35:1 aspect ratio, with some reviews indicating concern over their accuracy; yet, "Kid from Kwang Tung" seems to escape such issues.

Both audio options present an excellent auditory experience for viewers, supporting the film's dynamic action sequences while maintaining clarity in dialogue. The choice between Cantonese and English tracks ultimately comes down to personal preference regarding comedic delivery and familiarity with dubbing conventions. This edition successfully delivers a nostalgic audio experience with modern technical assurance.

The Blu-ray release of "Kid from Kwang Tung" offers a balanced selection of extras that, while not expansive, provide valuable insights into the film. The packaging is notably impressive, with a slipcover and reversible sleeve featuring new artwork by Sam Gilbey, adding a collector's appeal to the set. Additionally, four collector art cards are included, enriching the physical presentation. The extras contain a brief but engaging trailer and a stills gallery that showcases scenes from the movie in high definition. Both the trailer and stills gallery are succinct but effective in giving fans a deeper look behind the scenes. This release is coded for Regions A and B, making it a versatile addition to collections.

Extras included in this disc:

• Trailer: A brief standard-definition preview.
• Stills Gallery: High-definition images showcasing scenes from the film.

"Kid from Kwangtung" emerges as a unique entry in the saturated landscape of Shaw Brothers' martial arts films, embracing both comedy and action with varying degrees of success. Set amid a deluge of Shaw Brothers releases finally making their way to Blu-ray, this 1980s film provides plenty of material for both critics and fans of the genre. From the outset, the film adopts a light-hearted tone through characters He Jiayu (Wong Yu) and Wu Dezhi (Chiang Kam), who evoke modern comedic duos like Bill & Ted with their rivalry of humorous pranks. The comedic elements, however, sometimes falter in efficacy, which might detract from the film's narrative weight when the duo must unify against a common adversary.

Directed by Hsu Hsia, the film's plot serves mainly as a scaffold for integrating its action scenes and humor. The film subverts traditional Shaw Brothers' storytelling by leaning heavily into comedic antics, with standout sequences featuring brawling mascots—a costumed rooster and centipede—that exemplify its gonzo style. Despite the uneven comedy, the stunt choreography remains compelling, lending the film moments of dizzying martial arts spectacularly executed by actors more adept in action than in comedy. Hwang Jang-Lee's role as the quintessential villain adds gravitas, given his limited but memorable appearances in Shaw Brothers productions.

"Kid from Kwangtung" offers a blend of action and comedic slapstick that may not satisfy audiences seeking intense drama or deep emotional arcs. While the film's humor occasionally mutes its dramatic potential, the robust action sequences and unique cultural pastiche secure its status as a notable curiosity within the kung fu genre. Reflecting Shaw Brothers' late-era experimentation amid facing competition from Golden Harvest, "Kid from Kwangtung" remains an enjoyable, albeit lightweight, addition for martial arts aficionados exploring the breadth of Hong Kong cinema.

The Blu-ray release of "Kid from Kwang Tung" presents a commendable mix of action and comedy, showcasing the Shaw Brothers' attempt to deviate from their traditional kung fu narratives. While the movie attempts to blend high-flying martial arts sequences with elements of humor, the comedy sometimes falls short, potentially affecting the overall impact of the film's narrative progression. Despite this, the action sequences remain the film's most captivating feature, demonstrating classic kung fu choreography that fans of the genre will appreciate.

From a technical perspective, the Blu-ray delivers solid audio and visual quality. The video transfer highlights the vibrant colors typical of Shaw Brothers productions while maintaining adequate detail and clarity in action scenes. The audio tracks provide clear dialogue and suitably dynamic sound effects that enhance the viewing experience. These technical merits are likely to satisfy enthusiasts considering a purchase for their collection.

In conclusion, "Kid from Kwang Tung" offers an enjoyable experience primarily through its martial arts sequences, although the comedic elements might not resonate with all viewers. The film's predictable narrative could benefit from tighter comedic execution or a more focused approach on its core themes. Nonetheless, for those intrigued by a combination of kung fu and humor, the technical quality of this Blu-ray release makes it a solid consideration.