HKCinemagic : You used the big sword in a lot at Shaw films… |
Chen Kuan Tai : Yes. The kung fu I learned allows me to use all kind of weapons, not the big saber and the stick though. It has relation with the fist stances I learned. There is no preference. It depends on the characters in the movie and what is suitable to use, trying to use different weapons. It's impossible to fight every time with a sword, a spear or empty-handed. It all depends on the characters. But the sword is more comfortable than fighting empty-handed. |
Chen Kuan-tai in Shaw Brothers cafeteria |
HKCinemagic : You did so many movies, which one was the toughest? |
Chen Kuan Tai : Every movie was tough back in the days. Every movie took 60 days, in our day there was no computers, no stunt doubles, and no special effects. Movies involved with action are tough. Shooting King Gambler is more relaxed. Movies about gambling are more comfortable. |
|
HKCinemagic : Can you say something about Cheng Kang? |
Chen Kuan Tai : Cheng Kang's storytelling is good. When he tells a story, he already has the movie [in his head]. I like to listen to him telling stories. The King Gambler's story came from our conversations in his house. Cheng Kang is overly serious, if he shoots what he wrote and he doesn't like it, he will change and change it, therefore his movies took more time. |
Chang Cheh with his favorite actors
|
HKCinemagic :
Is it true you were involved with the 14 Amazons?
|
Chen Kuan Tai :
Yes I was. It took 2 to 3 years to complete. I was an action director for the 14 Amazons. He's [Cheng Kang] very demanding and he changed actions directors six times. After filming a scene, I couldn't take it anymore so I quitted and he changed action director again. He's very serious about work. |