Backdrop preview Dragon's Claws backdrop
Dragon's Claws

Dragon's Claws (1979)

Jan 01, 1979 1h 32m Action

A "Dragon Claw" master returns from Manchuria where he became a traitor to China. He's after the coveted Dragon Claw Golden Tablet that will force people to bow down to him. He challenges the Grand-master who has a checkered past of his own. The Grand-master happens to suffers from a terminal chronic injury related to his evil past. The traitor kills the grand-master, causing his wife and son the go into hiding. The wife seems to really be the Dragon Claw master in the family and she vows to train her son the kung fu secrets. The son finds that one of his friends has learned a strange style of kung fu from a filthy medicine man. The son seeks him out to improve his kung fu and defeat the traitor.

Directed by Joseph Kuo

Cast

View All

Crew

Director
  • Joseph Kuo
Writer
  • Joseph Kuo
Producer
  • Joseph Kuo

Reviews

No reviews yet. Be the first to review this movie!
Sign in to leave a review.

Thematic Analysis

This high-octane Action film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, Dragon's Claws distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.

Director Joseph Kuo 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 1979, 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 Dragon's Claws took approximately 21 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 92 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 116 minutes long.
  • The musical score contains over 69 unique compositions.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.

Historical Context

  • In 1979, when this film was released:
  • Economic recession and oil crises were affecting global economies.
  • 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

Details

  • Release Date: January 1, 1979
  • Runtime: 1h 32m

Similar Movies