Is Drunken Master Worth Watching?
Answer: Yes, Drunken Master is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Action movies.
It features a runtime of 111 minutes and offers a solid storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Drunken Master Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 1978, Drunken Master emerges as a significant entry in the Action, Comedy domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of After getting into trouble, a mischievous young man is sent to train under a brutal, but slovenly old beggar, who teaches him the secret of the Drunken Fist. Unlike standard genre fare, Drunken Master attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a refreshing take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Action is often anchored by its ensemble, and Drunken Master features a noteworthy lineup led by Jackie Chan . Supported by the likes of Simon Yuen Siu-Tien and Hwang Jang-Lee , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
In summary, our editorial assessment of Drunken Master (1978) is overwhelmingly positive. With an audience rating of 7.4/10, it stands as a mandatory watch for any serious cinema lover.
Drunken Master Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: Drunken Master is a Action, Comedy film that delivers high-octane sequences and adrenaline-pumping confrontations that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Story Breakdown
The narrative structure follows a classic action blueprint: establish the protagonist's world, introduce a formidable antagonist, and escalate the stakes through increasingly intense confrontations. After getting into trouble, a mischievous young man is sent to train under a brutal, but slovenly old beggar, who teaches him the secret of the Drunken Fist. The film balances spectacular set pieces with character moments, ensuring the action serves the story rather than overwhelming it.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: The film opens with an explosive sequence that immediately establishes the stakes and introduces our protagonist in action.
- Character Arc: The main character shows growth throughout the story, though some supporting characters could have been more fully realized. The arc is present but occasionally predictable.
- Climax & Resolution: The final confrontation delivers on the buildup, with stakes at their highest and the protagonist using everything they've learned.
Drunken Master Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: Drunken Master resolves its central conflict while maintaining thematic consistency. The finale has been praised for its approach to action resolution.
The climactic sequence delivers on the escalating tension, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes with clear resolution of its central conflicts, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Main characters complete meaningful transformations, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the action themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Drunken Master reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Drunken Master?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Action films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of the cast or director
- Want an adrenaline rush without demanding perfection
Drunken Master Box Office Collection
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Worldwide Gross | $16.5M |
| Trade Verdict | CLEAN HIT |
Advertisement
Full Cast & Crew of Drunken Master
- Jackie Chan – Fred Wong
- Simon Yuen Siu-Tien – Beggar So
- Hwang Jang-Lee – Thunderleg Yen Tieh-hsin
- Dean Shek Tin – Kai Hsin
- Hsu Hsia – King of Sticks Hsu Ching-tien
Top Highlights
Jackie ChanFred Wong
Simon Yuen Siu-TienBeggar So
Hwang Jang-LeeThunderleg Yen Tieh-hsin
Dean Shek TinKai Hsin
Hsu HsiaKing of Sticks Hsu Ching-tien
Linda Lin YingFei-hung's Aunt
Lam KauWong Kei-ying
Max Lee Chiu-ChunKei-ying's Student
Chiang KamDa Kuai-dai
Richard Cheung Kuen(extra) (uncredited)
Where to Watch Drunken Master Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
Apple TV🏷️ Buy on
Apple TVParents Guide & Age Rating
Drunken Master is rated PG-13. Parents should be aware that it contains violence, action sequences. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 7.4/10, and global collection metrics, Drunken Master stands as a successful venture for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1978 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Drunken Master movie hit or flop?
Drunken Master is considered a hit based on audience response and box office performance. With a rating of 7.4/10, it's highly recommended for fans of Action, Comedy movies.
Is Drunken Master worth watching?
Yes, Drunken Master is definitely worth watching! It's a must-watch hit for fans of Action, Comedy cinema.
Where can I watch Drunken Master online?
Drunken Master may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
Best Movies to Watch if you liked Drunken Master
How Drunken Master Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Drunken Master
No reviews found for this filter.
movieMx Verified
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
Useful Links
More with Jackie Chan
Robin Williams: Laugh Until You Cry
Henan Spring Festival Gala 2024
Beijing 2008 Olympic Closing Ceremony
Part of the Drunken Master Collection
Explore the full watch order, ratings, and collection details.
View Full Franchise