18 Swirling Riders A.K.A. 18 Shaolin Riders • 十八旋風騎 (1980)

18 Swirling Riders (1977) Also Known As: 18 Shaolin Riders · Xuan Feng Shi Ba Qi · 旋風十八騎. Directed by Lin Fu-di, this Taiwanese wuxia film stars Chan Sing, Chia Ling, Don Wong Tao and Lo Lieh. Its story of a band of righteous riders, a corrupt official and a treacherous enemy blends swordplay, deception and classic martial arts action.

The Story

Ho Yu-huan leads eighteen riders who use their martial arts skills to protect the poor and vulnerable. Their distinctive paper-knife symbol has become a sign of the group's reputation. When a corrupt tax collector's valuables become the target of a dangerous scheme, the riders are drawn into a web of deceit.

An enemy uses deception and infiltration to turn suspicion against the group. Ho Yu-huan and his companions must discover who is manipulating events before their name and their lives are destroyed.

The Martial Arts

18 Swirling Riders mixes swordplay, armed encounters and hand-to-hand kung fu in a story built around disguises, rival fighters and shifting loyalties. Chan Sing, Chia Ling, Don Wong Tao and Lo Lieh bring familiar faces of 1970s martial arts cinema to this Taiwanese wuxia production.

Why Collectors Pick It

Collectors of Taiwanese kung fu movies will recognize the cast and the film's unusual paper-knife motif. Its tale of a threatened brotherhood makes it an interesting companion to other independent 1970s wuxia and martial arts DVDs.

Historical Significance

Produced in Taiwan and released in 1977, 18 Swirling Riders was directed by Lin Fu-di and adapted from a wuxia story by Kao Yung. Taiwan's National Museum of History preserves a contemporary poster identifying the original title 旋風十八騎 and English title 18 Swirling Riders.

International & Alternate Titles

Film & DVD Details