Cast
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Cheng Pei-Pei
as Heroine Yen Hsing-kung
Lo Lieh
as Kao Hsia - 5th Brother
Chang Yi
as Scholar Kao Chih - 2nd Brother
Elliot Ngok Wah
as Valet Kao Wei - 4th Brother
Chin Han
as Blacksmith Kao Hao - 1st Brother
Kao Yuen
as Security Chief Kao Yung - 3rd Brother
Tien Feng
as Lung Chen-feng
Little Unicorn
as Flying Fork Wang
Wang Hsieh
as Wang Liao Er
Sammo Hung Kam-Bo
as Security Escort Chu
Ku Feng
as Lord Wan
James Tien Chun
as Bandit
Lan Wei-Lieh
as Li Xiao San
Chin Chun
as Wang's Thug Blocking Kao Chih's Way
Lee Wan-Chung
as Butler Teng
Crew
Director
- Lo Wei
Writer
- Lo Wei
- Ni Kuang
Producer
- Runme Shaw
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This high-octane Action film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, Brothers Five distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.
Director Lo Wei 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 1970, 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 Brothers Five took approximately 25 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 109 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 129 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 2471 individual shots.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 4 weeks before filming began.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1970, when this film was released:
- The Watergate scandal changed public perception of political institutions.
- 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 Brothers Five shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Off-Piste, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Brothers Five subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like The Fist That Kills and Night in Paradise explore similar territory, Brothers Five 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: March 26, 1970
- Runtime: 1h 49m
Where to Watch
