China's Core Movies

China Registration

Core Movie List

The Five Dragons are proud to present our core movie list which includes the following 8 movies. We feel that these 8 movies ( and any sequels you wish to view) define the genre well, and focus on the types of plots and characters that we're most likely to include in our game. If you watch even a few of these movies (but preferably all 8 of course!), you'll have a very good feeling for the style and morals of the fictional Ancient China we intend to portray:

1) Bride with White Hair (and sequel) - This is perhaps the quintessential "clan" movie and also includes some of the most vivid characters (especially villains) in all martial arts movies.
2) Once Upon a Time in China (and sequels) - These movies are set in a more modern China, which we will not be using, but include some very powerful hero types, and explain clans and clan leaders very well.
3) Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon - This movie includes plots and characters very much concerned with martial arts, as well as some great mentor/student relationships. It also happens to be one of the better, and most Western-accesible, martial arts movies ever made.
4) House of Flying Daggers - This includes some great detail about the rebellious factions that fought against the corrupt Emperor and his decadent court. The intrigues and twists are particularly interesting.
5) Chinese Ghost Story (and sequels) - These movies include elements of the supernatural, and go a long way toward explaining ghosts and ghost hunters.
6) Fong Sai Yuk (aka, The Legend, and sequels) - A little known but rollicking "funny" martial arts movie that includes mistaken identities, martial arts contests, and imperial rebels in abundance.
7) Twin Warriors - Also less well known, but one of our favorites. More rebels, and great plots involving the Chinese system of clan morality vs Imperial obedience.
8) Big Trouble in Little China - Though out of genre in some ways, and certainly set well beyond the time and place of our game, Big Trouble is by far the most Western martial arts movie, and includes the character of Lo Pan and his entourage, who figure prominently in the game.

Good luck and good viewing, and look for more commentary, including reflections on law, combat, and costuming, to come in the months ahead. Dzaijyan!