6/5/2023 0 Comments Storm riders 1998![]() This problem as often afflicted Lau’s work, but in a two hour film like ‘The Storm Riders’ this is more apparent than ever. The unpredictable pace of the film is the first weakness that clearly presents itself with Lau seemingly unable to combine moments of action with those of narrative development. This doesn’t mean it’s a great film though there are certainly weaknesses that are very apparent on first viewing and are further repeated as progressive viewings are taken in. The time for teamwork arrives when the two survive their respective assassination attempts and Wind discovers who really killed his father now in tried and tested fashion, only by overcoming their animosity towards one another can Wind and Cloud combine and gain revenge on the tyrannical Conquer.Īs was earlier stated, ‘The Storm Riders’ is certainly a landmark in Hong Kong film-making with its emphasis on western special effects in a uniquely eastern project. The unity that Wind and Cloud need for revenge is somewhat difficult to achieve as both are in love with the beautiful, yet flirtatious daughter of Conquer (Yang) and the obvious resentment between the two only increases as time goes on. He hasn’t, though, forgotten the second part of what he was told and now, with full power at his command, Conquer plans to use his adopted sons on two more missions and then have them killed. As the years pass and the powerful skills are taught to Wind and Cloud, the first part of the prophecy begins to take place and no-one can stand in Conquer’s way. With typical arrogance, Conquer listens only to the first part of this prophecy and sends out his minions to capture the two boys, killing the real fathers in the process. However, there is a warning alongside this and Conquer is told that, even though the two children will bring him great power when they grow up, they will eventually destroy him. The opportunity for this arises when Conquer is told about an obscure prophecy which sees him attain power if he adopts two children – Wind and Cloud – and teaches them his skills. Therefore another landmark in Hong Kong cinema was created and numerous attempts to plunder its success continue to this day.Ĭonquer (Chiba) hopes to rule the turbulent martial world he observes from his formidable kingdom. ![]() The result proved to be the year’s biggest grossing local film, even brushing aside strong foreign competition in its bid for box-office dollars. ![]() Based on the best-selling comic book of the same name, ‘The Storm Riders’ coupled a strong cast of Hong Kong stars with special effects hitherto unseen in local cinema. ![]()
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