Cast
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Lo Lieh
as Liao Fei Lung
Ku Feng
as Ma Tien Piao/Chen Yu Hing
Li Ching
as Ming Ming
Lee Ga-Sai
as Fung Da Jiao
Ding Sai
as Siu Sik Chi
Tang Ti
as 2nd Uncle
Dean Shek Tin
as Siu Ba
Lee Pang-Fei
as Police captain
Chu Gam
as Siu Ma
Tong Tin-Hei
as Assistant police captain
Sek Kin
as Master Xi
Chan Shen
as Lau Lo Sham
Lu Wei
as Bank cashier
Bolo Yeung Sze
as Master Xi's man
Sammo Hung Kam-Bo
as Bandit molesting Ming
Crew
Director
- Chang Tseng-Chai
Producer
- Runme Shaw
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Fugitive examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Chang Tseng-Chai brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1972, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Fugitive took approximately 6 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 77 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 127 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 2299 individual shots.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The screenplay went through 15 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 1972, when this film was released:
- The Watergate scandal changed public perception of political institutions.
- Disco music dominated popular culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Fugitive shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Raging Phoenix, which focuses more on action than character development, The Fugitive subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Second Life and Ninja explore similar territory, The Fugitive stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: December 6, 1972
- Runtime: 1h 17m
