Eureka Entertainment is excited to announce the release of “The Valiant Ones,” a seminal work by King Hu from the golden era of wuxia cinema. On May 28, this masterpiece will be available for the first time ever on Blu-ray and 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray, each with a brand new 4K restoration, as part of the esteemed Masters of Cinema Series. The first print run of 2000 copies in each format will come with a Limited Edition O-card slipcase, making it a prized addition to any film aficionado’s collection.
A Lasting Legacy in Wuxia Cinema
“The Valiant Ones” is celebrated as King Hu’s final tribute to the wuxia genre he so masterfully depicted in his earlier classics such as “Come Drink with Me,” “Dragon Inn,” and “A Touch of Zen.” Produced alongside “The Fate of Lee Khan” but released two years later, “The Valiant Ones” is a compelling narrative set during the reign of the Jiajing Emperor. It tells the story of China’s defense against the wokou, Japanese pirates led by the formidable Hakatatsu (Sammo Hung), through the assembly of a skilled warrior group by General Zhu Wan (Tu Kuang-chi).
Featuring iconic historical figures and inspired by true events, “The Valiant Ones” stands out in wuxia cinema, captivating audiences with its breathtaking showdowns and complex characters, portrayed by a stellar cast including Wing Bai and Feng Hsu as the formidable husband-and-wife duo.
Both the Blu-ray and 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray editions are packed with an array of special features that dive deep into the making of “The Valiant Ones” and the legacy of King Hu. Highlights include a brand new audio commentary by Asian film expert Frank Djeng, an insightful interview with critic Tony Rayns, and a video essay by David Cairns. Additionally, interviews with key figures such as stuntman Billy Chan and actor Ng Ming-choi provide a behind-the-scenes look at the film’s production. The collector’s booklet, featuring new writing on the film by Jonathan Clements, offers further exploration of its significance.
Experience “The Valiant Ones” Like Never Before
This release from Eureka Entertainment is not just a celebration of “The Valiant Ones” but a homage to the enduring allure of wuxia cinema. With the film presented in Dolby Vision HDR from a 4K digital restoration, viewers can experience the vibrancy, action, and drama of King Hu’s vision with unparalleled clarity and depth.
Prepare to immerse yourself in the world of “The Valiant Ones,” a film that not only defined a genre but also showcased the genius of one of cinema’s greatest directors. Mark your calendars for May 28 and get ready to add this timeless classic, in its most visually stunning format yet, to your collection.