The Thundering Sword is a Shaw Brothers wuxia martial arts film from 1967 starring Cheng Pei-Pei, Lo Lieh, Chang Li, and Ku Feng. The Thundering Sword was recently released on Blu-ray as part of the Shaw Brothers Classics Collection Volume 1 from Shout Factory.
“The Thundering Sword” from 1967 offers a tale filled with high melodrama, centering around star-crossed lovers, a mysterious and coveted sword, and a multitude of misunderstood plot devices.
Throughout the narrative, we witness the exceptional acting skills of Chang Pei-Pei, whose performance leaves a lasting impression. Additionally, the cinematic shooting style adds a visually captivating element to the film, even if it primarily features characters engaged in dialogue rather than action.
The highlight of “The Thundering Sword” lies in its one significant fight scene, featuring Chang Pei-Pei’s remarkable swordplay. The choreography during this sequence is superb, showcasing her convincing portrayal of a master of the sword.
Despite its flaws, “The Thundering Sword” may not warrant repeated viewings. Shout Factory’s Blu-ray release offers two new interviews discussing the history and lasting impact of Shaw Brothers films.