Review of Snake in the Eagle's Shadow (1978) by Steve W — 04 Feb 2013

This movie has a young Jackie Chan as a bullied servant for a low level martial arts school. When the master is away, the meaner teachers pick of Chien Fu, who is tormented and is used as their punching bag. He collides into the path of another, a beggar with incredible martial arts skills. The two become friends quickly, and the beggar teaches Chien the art of Snake Fist kung fu. Unbeknownst to Chien, there is a deadly conspiracy of Eagle Claw kung fu fighters who wish to wipe out the remaining users of Snake fist. Chien must find battle these vicious enemies, or the Snake Fist will be lost forever.

Full of incredible fight and gag choreography, Woo Ping Yuen definitely entertains in the second half of the movie. The plot takes a bit to get into momentum, but when it does its a fantastic mix of comedy and action. Its always a pleasure with Hwang Jang Lee, who plays the villainous Chang. This hidden gem of martial arts is one of Jackie's best and underrated features.