The Smiling, Proud Wanderer
This is the 80's version of Jin Yong's famed novel Siu Mo Kong Wu, which was remade in the 90's under the misleading English title of "State of Divinity", starring Jackie Liu, Fiona Leung Pui Ling, Chan Siu Ha, and Timmy Ho. The original adaptation gathers a more impressive cast: Chow Yun-Fat, Rebecca Chan Sau Chu, Jamie Chic Mei Chun, Dong Wai, Kenneth Tsang Tong, and Simon Yam Tuk Wah.
The story itself needs no introduction; it tells of mankind's futile attempt to define good and evil, as well as to categorize people in the mythical Mo Hup world. The series begins with a deep friendship between two members of belligent, opposing clans: the Five Sword Clans and the Sun/Moon Sect. Both are noble men and sacrifice their lives to remain true to the friendship. They had loved music and their legacy is a beautiful song which they had jointly written, called Siu Mo Kong Wu.
By chance, the song is then given into the possession of Ling Wu Chung, the eldest student of Wah San who is sympathetic to certain members of the Sun/Moon Sect. As a result, he incurs the wrath of his Master, Ngwok Buk Kwan, and is thrown out of the clan. He leaves behind his beloved martial-arts sister, Ngwok Ling San, who is developing an affection for Wah San newcomer Lum Ping Chi. The rest of the series is based on Ling Wu Chung's adventures as well as the struggle in the martial-arts world for the invincible kungfu techniques which require self-castration.
Typical of Jin Yong, the series has its share of beauties surrounding the handsome hero, power struggles, plenty of sword-fighting. Psychologically compelling characters. A good balance of irony and humor. As usual, the storyline has many unexpected twists and often leaves the viewer speechless with awe.
Action star Chow Yun-Fat gives a sensitive and charismatic performance as Ling Wu Chung. This was surprising, since he is usually typecast as a modern man/mobster/hitman with a conscience. Nonetheless, his transformation from a quick-witted, wine-drinking youth to a reluctant student who must kill his master is flawless.
Rebecca Chan is also acclaimed in her role as Yum Ying Ying. Her exotic beauty and subtle expressions suited her well as the strong-willed and supportive Ying Ying, who conscientiously knew that her intended was still inexplicably attached to Ngwok Ling San. Jamie Chic gives a heart-touching portrayal of Ngwok Ling San. The most revealing thing about both actresses' talent was that I couldn't decide who I wanted Ling Wu Chung to end up with; I was almost as torn as he was. This love triangle was not as prominent in the novel, but it added more romance and emotion to the series.
Dong Wai complements Chow's Ling Wu Chung with his unforgettable performance as Lum Ping Chi. Because his parents were murdered, Ping Chi becomes obsessed with revenge and sacrifices everything to achieve this end. Dong Wai deftly conveys the character's extremism and impatience which ultimately leads to his own destruction. Not overshadowed by Chow Yun Fat one bit.
The instrumental theme of Proud, Smiling Wanderer is one of TVB's most popular songs. It truly brings Siu Mo Kong Wu, what is deemed in the series as immortal music, to life. As for special effects, they are innovative and colorful, reminding me of lightsabers in Star Wars. Very vivid, with an even comic book, super-hero appeal like the recent X-Men movie. Perhaps TVB was experimenting with its special effects because it seemed overdone at times. Or maybe to distract viewers from Chow's supposed lack of martial-arts, which I honestly did not notice.
This is a must-see for all Jin Yong fans, especially those fans of Chow Yun Fat, Rebecca Chan, or Jamie Chic!!!
