Biography
This little powerhouse is an excellent Stuntman/Acrobat, like his good friend, Jackie Chan, and he's done a good job as a Director. One is one of a few actors, who waited patiently, for his big break (about 7-years). I've gained (even) more respect for him, because of his tremendous stuntwork. A high-point was, when I found out that he was the stunt-double for super-villain Chang Yi, in The Victim.
Later on (after tons of movie watching), I found out that he's been 'doubling' for people for years (virtually) undetected. Depending on what you're watching, you might see his face pop-up anywhere. He was one of the best stuntmen in the business, working on countless productions - for various Independant companies, Shaw Brothers, and Golden Harvest.
He was at his best, when he starred with his buddies from childhood - (Jackie, Samo Hung, and Yuen Wah), because they each know the others' movements so well. He could be found working with classmate Yuen Kwei in films like Heroes Of Shaolin, Invincible Armor, and Secret Rivals-2 and many other films, throughout the mid 70's and 80's. It was Samo, who would elevate him to Superstar status, by directing him in The Prodigal Son and Knockabout.
Later on (after tons of movie watching), I found out that he's been 'doubling' for people for years (virtually) undetected. Depending on what you're watching, you might see his face pop-up anywhere. He was one of the best stuntmen in the business, working on countless productions - for various Independant companies, Shaw Brothers, and Golden Harvest.
He was at his best, when he starred with his buddies from childhood - (Jackie, Samo Hung, and Yuen Wah), because they each know the others' movements so well. He could be found working with classmate Yuen Kwei in films like Heroes Of Shaolin, Invincible Armor, and Secret Rivals-2 and many other films, throughout the mid 70's and 80's. It was Samo, who would elevate him to Superstar status, by directing him in The Prodigal Son and Knockabout.
Here, he displayed the type of acrobatics, that most World-Class Gymnasts dream of. One of the best acrobats within the genre -- throughout his career, he's displayed these skills, numerous times. He always worked within his group of Peking Opera buddies and helping out when needed. He even had a small role in Jackie's first film for the US - The Big Brawl -- his 2nd appearance in a major (American) release. Though, a small role, I think it was this film, that inspired him to do (even) better work in Hong Kong. When he filmed Enter The Dragon, he was just 15-years old and didn't realize the scope of his profession -- but (7) years later, I think he was a much bigger picture.
In later films, he would come into his own - Righting Wrongs, Iceman Cometh, and Kickboxer (directed by good friend Wu Ma). He would give us his version of choreography, that took years and honed by some of the best in the business. He is one of those actors, who can handle Comedy or straight action pretty well. Yet, no matter the part (big or small) he always managed to standout from the crowd. I've noticed, his roles vary dramatically, unless he's calling the shots or working with his buddies. I thought his talents were wasted in Once Upon A Time In China -- given what I've seen him do over the years, he should've had a (much) better part. He still has legions of fans around the world and was extremely popular in Japan.