Last Hurrah for Chivalry (1978)

74% of users liked it
(1,546 ratings)

This 1978 martial arts film by director John Woo was wrapped nearly 20 years before 1997's Face/Off would bring him mainstream acceptance in Hollywood. His star was rising already in this routine story enhanced by his characteristic signature: dazzling fight sequences, flawed heroes, and well-placed… More This 1978 martial arts film by director John Woo was wrapped nearly 20 years before 1997's Face/Off would bring him mainstream acceptance in Hollywood. His star was rising already in this routine story enhanced by his characteristic signature: dazzling fight sequences, flawed heroes, and well-placed comedy that releases tension. The narrative itself is a tale of a son (Damian Lau) who sets out to avenge his father but cannot manage alone. He seeks the help of some swordsmen, one of whom tends to doze off during a fight. ~ Eleanor Mannikka, Rovi

Play Trailer

Rating, Runtime: Unrated, 2 hr.
Directed By: John Woo
Genres: Art House & International, Action & Adventure

In Theaters: Nov 22, 1979 Wide
On DVD: Jul 24, 2007
Studio: Tai Seng

Critic Reviews

Fernando F. Croce, CinePassion
Woo instills Chang Cheh's tutelage with his own obsessions, and ushers action cinema into the new decade
Todd Gilchrist, IGN Movies
John Woo's early wuxia film shows how the action auteur developed some of his trademark themes.
Jeffrey M. Anderson, Combustible Celluloid
The half-dozen great set pieces (including one in a room full of candles) make this one worth a try, at least for fans.
Marty Mapes, Movie Habit
Made by John Woo before he became synonymous with modern Hong Kong gangster movies
Bill Gibron, PopMatters
Loaded with mind blowing swordplay and lots of signature John Woo touches, Last Hurrah for Chivalry is either the best feudal Chinese soap opera ever concocted, or a chance for a then journeyman director to make a name for himself.

Critic ratings and reviews powered by RottenTomatoes.com

Fresh (60% or more critics rated the movie positively)

Rotten (59% or fewer critics rated the movie positively)

Featured Audience Ratings

Tsubaki S

Early stuff from Woo, already showing the themes common in his future films, friendship and loyalty. Five Venoms star Wei Bai (the snake) plays the main lead while Damian Lau plays a cool drinking swordsman. The second half stretches a bit too much, and the fights seems to get too… More
Early stuff from Woo, already showing the themes common in his future films, friendship and loyalty. Five Venoms star Wei Bai (the snake) plays the main lead while Damian Lau plays a cool drinking swordsman. The second half stretches a bit too much, and the fights seems to get too redundant. Still, a very decent option for any HK aficionado.

Cast

See full cast

Trailers & Clips

Now you can share movies with your friends on Facebook!

Discover movies your friends are watching
Keep track of what you want to see
Add your reviews to your Timeline