

When scholar Wei Fung is forcibly hired by the Manchu Emperor to infiltrate a clan of rebellious Ming Loyalists, his mission goes adrift when he falls in love with the clan's leader's granddaughter. Wei Fung must choose between his new love and his family, who will be put to death if he doesn't return to the palace successfully.
Direction
Lau Kar-Leung's obsessive authentic animal style choreography
Acting
David Chiang's scholar-turned-killer emotional arc
Practical Effects
No wires, all real mantis form suffering and sweat

Director
Lau Kar-Leung
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Lau Kar-Leung spent months studying real praying mantises to design the fighting style, and it shows in every awkward, deadly arm movement.
The Manchu/Ming conflict reflects actual Qing dynasty tensions, with martial arts schools often serving as covert resistance networks—a theme Shaw Bros milked for decades.