Peking Opera Blues (1986)

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Having already proven himself a master of kinetic action with Zu Warriors from the Magic Mountain, legendary director Tsui Hark would add lashings of comedy and frenzied expressionism to spectacular effect with 1986's Peking Opera Blues.

Beijing, 1913. In a time of violent turmoil when local tyrants vie for supremacy, three women's lives converge in the local Peking Opera house. Together they hatch a revolutionary plan to stop president Yuan Shikai from reinstating the monarchy and proclaiming himself emperor. With the help of a righteous freedom-fighter and a disillusioned palace guard, the rebels must use all their wits and brawn to protect their democratic principles and save the emerging Chinese republic.