Dragon Fist (1979) is a Hong Kong martial arts film directed by Lo Wei, featuring Jackie Chan in the lead role as Tang How-yuen. The film is notable for its serious tone and action sequences, showcasing Chan's early career in the martial arts genre.
The plot revolves around Tang How-yuen, a disciple of kung fu master San-thye, who wins a martial arts tournament but is subsequently killed by the evil kung fu master, Master Li (played by Yen Shi-kwan). Following his master's death, Tang teams up with San-thye's widow and daughter to seek revenge against Master Li. As they pursue their quest for vengeance, they encounter various challenges, including Tang's struggles to prove himself and confront the powerful enemies standing in their way.
One of the film's key themes is redemption, as Tang must navigate his own shortcomings while striving to honor his master's legacy. The narrative also explores the consequences of violence and the importance of loyalty and friendship in the face of adversity.
Dragon Fist was filmed in South Korea and released on April 21, 1979. It grossed approximately HK$1 million at the Hong Kong box office and sold over 246,000 tickets overseas, including notable performances in Seoul and France. Unlike many of Chan's later films, which incorporated humor and comedic elements, Dragon Fist maintains a more serious approach throughout its storyline.
Overall, Dragon Fist is significant in Jackie Chan's filmography as it showcases his martial arts skills while contributing to the broader narrative of kung fu cinema during the late 1970s. The film reflects both the challenges faced by its characters and the evolving landscape of martial arts films during this era.