The River - Poem of Wrath
The River - Poem of Wrath

Movie spotlight

The River - Poem of Wrath

1967
Movie
103 min
Japanese

A man sets out to search for his brother among the survivors of Hiroshima after an anonymous letter.

Insights

IMDb7.5/10
Director: King HuGenres: Action, Drama, History, War

Plot Summary

In the tumultuous 16th century, during the Ming Dynasty, a loyal general is framed and forced to flee with his family. Hunted by ruthless assassins and betrayed by those he once trusted, he must rely on his martial arts skills and the help of a band of rebels to clear his name and fight for justice. The film masterfully blends intricate swordplay with a compelling narrative of loyalty, betrayal, and the struggle for survival against overwhelming odds.

Critical Reception

The River - Poem of Wrath is widely regarded as a landmark in wuxia cinema, celebrated for its sophisticated storytelling, breathtaking action choreography, and King Hu's distinctive directorial vision. It is often praised for its mature themes and artistic depth, setting it apart from more conventional martial arts films of its era.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its stunning visual artistry and fluid martial arts sequences.

  • Applauded for its complex narrative exploring themes of honor and political intrigue.

  • Considered a significant contribution to the wuxia genre by a master filmmaker.

Google audience: While specific Google user reviews are not readily available for this classic film, general audience reception typically highlights its artistic merit and expertly choreographed fight scenes, marking it as a must-watch for fans of martial arts cinema.

Fun Fact

Director King Hu initially envisioned 'The River - Poem of Wrath' as the first part of a planned trilogy, though the subsequent installments were never produced.

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