Fearless Hyena

Hong Kong Legends have complemented their Hand Of Death release by giving Jackie Chan’s seminal directorial debut, Fearless Hyena, the Ultra-bit treatment as well. Again, the restored picture is back to its former glory with clear, crisp lines and sharp colour definition. All the better for trying to keep up with the near blurring of Chan’s limbs in the amazing fight sequences. The treatment really does the amazing choreography justice. Sound quality, dodgy and dated comedic bounces and all, also meets expectations.

Andrew Staton and Arnie Hayirlioglu from Martial Arts Illustrated and Impact magazine provide the commentary. They’re slow to start, dwelling on the contractual obligations and shenanigans the young Chan had to contend with and often it’s Andrew inviting Arnie to comment. However, they eventually relax into things and while it makes a change to have more than one voice relating anecdotes about an Asian martial arts film, neither can convey the authority or sprightly pace of Bey Logan.