Taraparain
Tells a fascinating and unsettling true story, and does so well, without pretending to have all the answers.
Falconeer
"Big Brother Cheng" is the sequel to the 1974 cult hit "The Teahouse," also starring the legendary kung fu idol Chen Kuan Tai. Chen plays brother Cheng Wang, the owner of the teahouse that was almost destroyed in the first film, by thugs who he stood up against. This film finds brother Cheng returning to the restaurant that he was driven from, when his family of workers need his help once again, to fight the crime in their area. This one is not as gritty as it's predecessor, and more episodic. But Chen Kuan Tai is always great to see on screen, and the character 'darkie Wen' returns from the first film. Now out of prison, with a newly shaved head, he has reformed, and has developed a sense of honor, as well as a strong dedication to brother Cheng. This one plays out like a Chinese "Death Wish," with Cheng going to ever greater extremes to punish the local gangs for their crimes. He pushes them too far however, and they eventually go after his beautiful wife, and later, his friend Darkie Wen. These vicious killings begin a war in the middle of the city, with Cheng as the avenging angel. Nothing really new here, but still this is a good film, and an opportunity to see Chen Kuan Tai in one of his first features. Like it's predecessor, "The Teahouse," there is no kung fu, and this will disappoint many fans. Still a worthy film with some great scenes, and unforgettable moments, like when the Teahouse workers kidnap three neighborhood rapists and force them to walk in circles naked, with weights tied around their genitals! Slow to start, but "Big Brother Cheng" picks up momentum in it's third act, and finishes on a strong note. Recommended, but see "The Teahouse" first.
