The Boxer from Shantung is a classic martial arts film directed by Chang Cheh and Wu Ma and released in 1972. The movie stars Chen Kuan-tai in the lead role of the protagonist Ma Yongzhen, also known as "The Boxer", who leaves his rural hometown of Shantung to find success in the bustling city of Shanghai.
Upon arrival, Ma is unable to find work and faces discrimination and hardship due to his rural background. He meets a gangster named Tan Si who offers him a job as a bodyguard. Ma accepts the offer and soon becomes involved in the violent and corrupt underworld of Shanghai.
As Ma rises through the ranks of his employer's criminal organization, he becomes embroiled in a power struggle with rival gangs and must use his impressive fighting skills to protect himself and those he cares about. However, Ma's loyalty and morality are tested when he realizes the true cost of his involvement with the criminal underworld.
The Boxer from Shantung is known for its gritty portrayal of a harsh urban environment and its depiction of the violent, cutthroat world of organized crime. The movie also features dynamic fight scenes and showcases Chen Kuan-tai's impressive physical abilities and martial arts skills. Overall, it is considered a classic of the martial arts genre and a must-see for fans of martial arts cinema.