This is one of the most comprehensive reviews of the Big Boss that I've heard, touching on a lot of the subtle nuances within the film and of course Bruce Lee himself so I thank you for that.
Good review. It was my favorite film of his since it was his first HK martial arts film laying down the evolution for his films to come. The kia sounds he gave in the latter films and the iconic nunchakus for his next three complete films. This was his first so it needed to be seen as a starters film for box office purposes. Of course you mentioned the promise Lee's character had so as to refrain from fighting and how important that talisman was in keeping that promise. As for the title of the film the American market didn't see The Big Boss as a movie people would go and see. The given title was The Chinese Connection because of the drug trafficking,his second film was entitled Fists of Fury in it's native Chinese language which didn't need a title change. After his untimely death the titles were given to the wrong films so for decades Fist of Fury(The Big Boss) and Chinese Connection (Fists of Fury) was what we came to know.
The Mandarin Cut is currently the best version of The Big Boss, the extended fight scenes featuring James Tien, Tony Liu & Ying Chieh-Han strengthen the first half of the movie & the second prostitute scene along with the graphic depiction of Lee's family make the finale more dramatic, as we realise Lee's character did not expect to survive. I would also recommend the English Dub with the iconic Peter Thomas score, i personally did not enjoy the Cantonese re-release, featuring Lee's added war cries & Pink Floyd score, bothy sounded out of place somewhat.
I agree, the extended fight scenes are always welcomed. I just can't help but prefer the Cantonese version mainly for nostalgic purposes that and the Mandarin Cut's soundtrack feels so sparse in comparison. But for a first time viewer I'd recommend the Mandarin Cut for sure.
@@reel_reflections - Yes, thank you. It is clear you're a knowledgeable Bruce Lee fan. Looking forward to your next video on Fist of Fury which is my second favourite Bruce Lee movie after Enter the Dragon.
