Cast
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Suet Nei
as Muk Lan-Fa
Kenneth Tsang
as Ko Cheung
Law Oi-seung
as Muk Sau-Jan
Kwan Hoi-San
as Policeman
Lydia Shum Tin-Ha
as Nurse
Sze-Ma Wah-Lung
as Policeman
Fung Ngai
as Sing Sam Long
David Chow Wing-Kwong
as Dentist's assistant
Cheng Kwun-Min
as Do Gwai Lim
Lee Hak
as
Lok Gung
as Police chief
Chow Gat
as
Wong Hak
as Fuk Bak
Tong Kai
as Thug
Lau Kar-Leung
as Policeman
Crew
Director
- Law Chi
Producer
- Ho Lai Lai
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This high-octane Action/Crime/Adventure/Mystery film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, Lady in Black Cracks the Gate of Hell distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.
Director Law Chi 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 1967, 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 Lady in Black Cracks the Gate of Hell took approximately 36 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 105 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 140 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 3 months to complete.
- The screenplay went through 5 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The costume department created over 209 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 1967, when this film was released:
- The space race between the USSR and USA was at its height.
- The Vietnam War was becoming increasingly controversial.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Lady in Black Cracks the Gate of Hell shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Happy Partner, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Lady in Black Cracks the Gate of Hell subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Highlander and Highlander II: The Quickening explore similar territory, Lady in Black Cracks the Gate of Hell stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: March 29, 1967
- Runtime: 1h 45m
