Ho Meng-hua, one of the many Shaw Studio directors that is talented and has tremendous directing versatility. In the early ‘60s, Ho collaborated with two other directors Chen Yu-hsin and Li Han-hsiang to make two huangmei operas “ A Maid From Heaven” (starring Ling Po, Fang Yin) and “The Adulteress” (starring Li Li-hua, Kwan Shan). Although an amateur, his directing talents in these spectacular classics about the fairy-mortal romance and the tragic Qing trial are remarkable .
Ho’s acclaimed adaptation of the classic novel “Journey To The West” (starring Yue Hua, Diana Cheung) is a box-office success in the ‘60s. The rambunctious Monkey, the lecherous Pigsy and their righteous Monk are classic characters that give an ever-lasting impression. The success has enable him to continue the sequel “ Princess Iron Fan” (starring Ting Hung, Cheng Pei Pei, Lily Ho) , “Cave of the Silken Web” (starring Yu Chien) and “Land of Many Perfumes” (starring Fang Yin).
Not only the Chinese classic novel, Ho has also directed “The King With My Face” which is based on the legend of French King Louis the XIV. This is a Shaw-Korean joint production and young Li Ching co-stars as the princess who is entangled in the triangular love with the twin sons of the emperor. A very interesting thriller that is in my favorite collection.
In the same era, Ho has explored new movie genre to make contemporary drama. He has successfully created the title role “Susanna” for actress Li Ching to win the “Best Actress” award in an Asian Film Festival. The damsel-in-distress in this tear-jerker touches many with her superb performance.
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1 comment:
He is considered one of the best in SB Studio!
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