Wuxia Unleashed: Leon Hunt & Chris Hamm on Martial Arts and Myth

03/27/24 • 81 min

Cinema Scope: Bridging Genres, Subgenres, & Movements

In this inaugural episode of Cinema Scope, host Andy Nelson is joined by professors Leon Hunt and Chris Hamm to explore the captivating world of wuxia, a Chinese film genre that blends philosophy, action, and legend. They discuss the key elements that define wuxia, such as the chivalrous heroes, period settings, and fantastical elements, as well as the concept of jianghu, a unique world within wuxia stories.

Leon and Chris trace the evolution of wuxia from its roots in early Chinese literature to its influence on other genres, including Hollywood blockbusters. They also highlight notable works like A Touch of Zen, The Bride with White Hair, and Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, analyzing their contributions to the development and popularity of wuxia cinema.

This engaging and informative episode will deepen your appreciation for the richness and complexity of the wuxia genre, inspiring you to explore more of these captivating films.

Film Sundries

Recommended and Discussed Movies
- Come Drink With Me on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
- Golden Swallow on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
- The New One-Armed Swordsman on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
- A Touch of Zen on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
- The Magic Blade on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
- Last Hurrah for Chivalry on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
- The Butterfly Murders on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
- Swordsman II on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
- The Bride with White Hair on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
- Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon on Apple, Amazon,...

This engaging and informative episode will deepen your appreciation for the richness and complexity of the wuxia genre, inspiring you to explore more of these captivating films.

Film Sundries

Recommended and Discussed Movies
- Come Drink With Me on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
- Golden Swallow on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
- The New One-Armed Swordsman on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
- A Touch of Zen on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
- The Magic Blade on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
- Last Hurrah for Chivalry on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
- The Butterfly Murders on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
- Swordsman II on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
- The Bride with White Hair on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
- Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon on Apple, Amazon,...

Previous Episode

Welcome to Cinema Scope!

Cinema Scope, hosted by Andy Nelson, is an engaging celebration of film that examines how genres, subgenres, and movements are sculpted by a blend of cultural, aesthetic, and economic forces, alongside historical, technological, and sociopolitical shifts. Each episode features expert insights and vibrant discussions on iconic films, unpacking the complex interplay of influences that shape cinema's evolution. It's a must-listen for those who love film and enjoy uncovering the rich tapestry of storytelling, style, and innovation that defines it.

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Film Sundries

Recommended and Discussed Movies
- The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
- The Street on Amazon
- The Last Laugh on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
- Pandora’s Box on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
- M on Apple, Amazon, and JustWatch
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Cinema Scope: Bridging Genres, Subgenres, & Movements - Wuxia Unleashed: Leon Hunt & Chris Hamm on Martial Arts and Myth

Transcript

Andy00:02:16.100

Welcome to cinemascope where we slice through the mystique of cinema's genre landscapes. I'm Andy Nelson, your guide on this journey to bridge film genres, subgenres, and movements, ultimately deepening our understanding of

Chris00:02:27.816

them all.

Andy00:02:28.776

Today, for our inaugural episode, I'm very excited to talk about this, this one. We're diving into Woosha to discover how