Tsui Hark’s *The Blade* Gets the Criterion Treatment in 4K UHD

Tsui Hark’s 1995 martial arts film, The Blade, is set to receive a special edition 4K UHD and Blu-ray release from The Criterion Collection on March 31, 2026. This release marks a significant moment for the film, which was initially a commercial disappointment but has since been recognized as a radical and influential work within the wuxia genre.

A Visceral and Stylized Martial Arts Epic

The Blade offers a gritty reimagining of the one-armed swordsman story, a figure popularized by Shaw Brothers studio in 1967. The film follows Ding On (Vincent Zhao), a young sword-maker who, after losing an arm in an ambush, transforms into a vengeful warrior. Hark’s direction is characterized by immersive close-ups, fractured editing, and a deliberately disorienting style, creating a visually striking and intense experience.

The Story Unfolds

The narrative centers on Ding On’s journey, spurred by the murder of his father by Flying Dragon (Xiong Xin-Xin). Siu Ling (Song Lei), the daughter of a master swordsmith, inadvertently sets in motion a chain of events as she plays with the affections of Ding On and Iron Head (Moses Chan). When Siu Ling is captured, Ding On loses his arm defending her, leading him down a path of isolation and revenge. The film explores themes of violence, retribution, and the harsh realities of the “jianghu” – a world of transactional relationships and spiraling conflict.

What Sets *The Blade* Apart?

While a remake of the popular film The One-Armed Swordsman, The Blade distinguishes itself through its unconventional approach to the martial arts genre. It intentionally breaks from traditional conventions, resulting in a film that is both visually arresting and thematically complex. The film’s exploration of masculinity and its stark, brutal tone contribute to its unique identity.

The Criterion Collection Release: What’s Included?

The Criterion Collection’s release boasts a new 4K digital restoration with an uncompressed monaural soundtrack. The package includes both a 4K UHD disc (Dolby Vision HDR) and a Blu-ray disc containing the film and special features. These features include:

• New audio commentary with Hong Kong cinema expert and producer Frank Djeng
• Action et vérité (2006), a documentary featuring Tsui Hark, coscreenwriter Koan Hui, and actor Xiong Xin-Xin
• New video essay by filmmakers Taylor Ramos and Tony Zhou (Every Frame a Painting)
• New York Asian Film Festival Q&A with Tsui Hark from 2011
• Alternate English-dubbed track
• International-version opening and complete credits
• Trailer
• New English subtitle translation
• An essay by author Lisa Morton
• New cover by Oliver Barrett

A Rediscovered Masterpiece

Initially met with limited success, The Blade has gained recognition as one of Tsui Hark’s most visionary works. The Criterion Collection’s release provides a definitive edition of this influential film, offering both a stunning visual presentation and insightful supplemental materials for fans and newcomers alike.