HK MOVIE

Shaolin vs. Evil Dead (2004)

“Shaolin vs. Evil Dead” is a Hong Kong horror-action film that blends jiangshi (Chinese hopping vampires) lore with Shaolin martial arts and a dose of old-school supernatural camp. Starring Gordon Liu, the film clearly draws inspiration from classic 80s and 90s jiangshi movies like Mr. Vampire, but adds a darker and grittier tone. The story revolves around a Taoist monk who specializes in controlling and fighting undead creatures. With strong Shaolin kung fu elements, flashy spellcasting, and eerie atmospheres, the film tries to modernize the jiangshi genre with a mix of traditional action and supernatural thrills. While the movie boasts stylish visuals and Gordon Liu's iconic martial arts presence, it suffers from a disjointed plot, abrupt ending, and low-budget effects. In fact, the film ends with a to be continued..., leaving many plot threads unresolved (a sequel, Shaolin vs. Evil Dead: Ultimate Power, followed in 2005). Verdict: A fun watch for fans of classic Hong Kong vampire flicks and martial arts cinema, but don’t expect a polished or complete story. Think of it as a nostalgic genre experiment rather than a serious horror film. Rating: 5.5/10 – entertaining for niche fans, but flawed in execution.