Cast
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David Carradine
as Kwai Chang Caine
Barry Sullivan
as Dillon
Albert Salmi
as Raif
Wayne Maunder
as McKay
Benson Fong
as Han Fei
Richard Loo
as Master Sun
Keye Luke
as Master Po
Philip Ahn
as Master Kan
Victor Sen Yung
as Chuen
Robert Ito
as Fong
James Hong
as Hsiang
Radames Pera
as Young Caine
Roy Jenson
as Fuller
John Leoning
as Master Teh
David Chow
as Little Monk
Crew
Director
- Jerry Thorpe
Writer
- Howard Friedlander
- Ed Spielman
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Kung Fu: The Way of the Tiger, the Sign of the Dragon represents a fascinating example of Adventure/Western/TV Movie cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Jerry Thorpe 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 pacing and visual storytelling 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 Kung Fu: The Way of the Tiger, the Sign of the Dragon took approximately 29 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 75 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 95 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 386 unique costume pieces for the production.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 11 months to complete.
- The film contains approximately 1835 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 1972, when this film was released:
- Economic recession and oil crises were affecting global economies.
- Environmental awareness was growing as a social concern.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Kung Fu: The Way of the Tiger, the Sign of the Dragon shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Highlander, which focuses more on action than character development, Kung Fu: The Way of the Tiger, the Sign of the Dragon subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Highlander II: The Quickening and Highlander III: The Sorcerer explore similar territory, Kung Fu: The Way of the Tiger, the Sign of the Dragon stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
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: February 22, 1972
- Runtime: 1h 15m
