Review of Shaolin Brothers

Introduction

Let`s look at a little of the blurb for this disc:-

"Combining the supernatural and martial arts wizardry to brilliant effect, Shaolin Brothers is an "old skool" kung fu classic from director Joseph Kuo."

Sounds good so far. Let`s read on:-

"Having spent 10 years together as disciples in the Shaolin temple, close friends Ling Yun-Chang and Ko Lung-Ta find themselves at odds when politics take a part in their lives. Ko is appointed South China Area Commander and invites Ling to join him serving the Manchu government."

A classic tale of brother vs. brother then?

"The Shaolin brothers must overcome the Manchu army of bizarre fighting experts and their deadly magic armour kung fu."

But they make up in the end?

"An acknowledged classic of the kung fu genre, featuring some of the most innovative and original martial arts action of its time."

Wow, sounds like we`re in for a real treat then. Let`s sit back and enjoy...

Video

A sort of 2.35:1 non-anamorphic transfer (it looks like it might be a bit less though, I didn`t bother measuring it). And it`s in a bit of a state, with colours all over the shop from quite good to very washed out. It has a ropey VHS quality about it a lot of the time. The only good thing is that there was little damage in the form of scratches, dust and dirt.

Just about bearable. But only just.

Audio

A naff DD2.0 English dubbed soundtrack. Not only is it a dub (a criminal offence in my book), it`s very poor quality, with lots of naff sound effects added over the top and no redeeming features.

Features

Just a trailer.

Conclusion

"An acknowledged classic of the kung fu genre, featuring some of the most innovative and original martial arts action of its time."

If that`s true then I`m Steven Spielberg. The plot is a mess, the fighting isn`t great and you just end up laughing for all of the wrong reasons. If this "Old Skool Kung Fu" series is supposed to be about classic films, then they`ve messed up with this one. But if it means naff and laughable films, then its inclusion is spot on.

If you want to see a good film with martial arts in it, get something else like Iron Monkey or a Bruce Lee film. If you want a laughable piece of tat on a tatty DVD with naff picture and sound, this is your thing.

Avoid, even if it`s in a bargain bucket for 1 pound.