Hand-Painted Ghana Movie Poster - Shaolin Vrs Lama (Martial Arts)

This striking hand-painted movie poster for the martial arts classic "Shaolin Vrs Lama" showcases the vibrant, dynamic style typical of Ghanaian cinema art. Painted on recycled flour sacks, the poster features bold colors and intense depictions of martial arts action, capturing the spirit of the film. The artist's interpretation enhances the drama and excitement of the movie, making it an eye-catching piece that stands out as both a promotional tool and a work of art.

Cultural and Artistic Significance

Ghanaian hand-painted movie posters are a unique form of African art, born out of the mobile cinema culture that emerged in Ghana during the 1980s. These posters were hand-painted by local artists on recycled flour sacks and used to advertise films in towns and villages across the country. Each poster is a one-of-a-kind creation, reflecting the artist's personal interpretation of the movie. Due to the tough conditions they were subjected to—being folded, rolled, and exposed to the elements—many of these posters have not survived, making those that remain highly collectible.

The "Shaolin Vrs Lama" poster is a vivid example of this tradition. It not only serves as a reminder of the innovative and resourceful methods used by Ghanaian artists but also highlights the cultural exchange between African and Asian cinema, particularly in the martial arts genre. This art form has been recognized globally, with exhibitions in museums around the world, celebrating the creativity and unique vision of these artists.

Film Information

"Shaolin Vrs Lama"

• Genre: Martial Arts, Action
• Director: Lee Tso-Nam
• Cast: Alexander Lo Rei, Alan Chui Chung-San, Chang Shan, Lung Tien-Hsiang, and Chiang Tao
• Plot: The film follows a wandering martial artist who, in his quest for invincibility, challenges the legendary Shaolin Temple. Along the way, he must confront various masters and eventually faces off against a formidable Lama, leading to intense and spectacular fight scenes that are a hallmark of the genre.

"Shaolin Vrs Lama" is renowned for its thrilling martial arts choreography and its depiction of traditional Shaolin practices. Directed by Lee Tso-Nam, the film is a classic of 1980s martial arts cinema, featuring standout performances and a compelling narrative of ambition, discipline, and the quest for martial superiority. The film's action sequences and the cultural elements of Shaolin and Lama traditions make it a significant piece in the genre's history.