The Head of a County Who Was a Bandit (China, 1985)

[Chu Liu Hsiang]

Does anyone know this movie?

https://hkmdb.com/db/movies/view.mhtml?id=21868&display_set=eng

I can't find info on it, apart from entries in hkmdb and ofdb, and a German review which sums up to a Robin Hood-like plot including little (gun) action.  According to ofdb, it's also known as A CHIVALROUS MAGISTRATE. It was released in Germany in April (German dub only) as DIE BANDITEN AUS DEN BERGEN.  The cover says it is based on a novel of Ma Shitu.

 

Edited June 3, 2021 by Chu Liu Hsiang

[ShawAngela]

Looks interesting.

jpc mentions it as an action historical movie.

[Chu Liu Hsiang]

I found a used copy for 5 bucks so I grabbed it, as I'm seriously curious now  I will report once I watched it. 

[chonk]

Hey Chu Liu Hsiang!

Did you watch it? I would call this a socialist adventure-drama, but featuring only a little bit of adventure. It's implied that the bandits are skilled in martial arts, and there's a training scene hinted without actually being shown. But no actual Wushu, unfortunately. "Let the Bullets Fly" (2010) is (loosely) based on the same story. 

It's pretty slow, but a well-done movie in general. I really liked the setting and there was little, but still enough suspense to keep me interested in it. The action was not very impressive, though. Can't recommend it to people looking for martial arts or action. 

I'm still hoping that Pidax will release "Murky Shadows over the Gorges" and "Betrayal and Revenge", two pure martial arts movies from Mainland China which were available in Eastern Germany back then. 

I've attached three pictures because the photos on the backcover are not representative at all. 

Sorry for bringing up this older topic but thought this might be of interest. Also interested in your thoughts about this movie.