Cast
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Tsung Hua
as Meng Sheng-hun
Elliot Ngok Wah
as Lu Hsiang-chuan
Ku Feng
as Uncle Sun Yu
Ching Li
as Hsiao Tieh / Sun Yu's Daughter
Wang Chung
as Sun Chien
Lo Lieh
as Han Tang
Danny Lee Sau-Yin
as Tieh Cheng-kang / Sun Chien's Friend/ Hsiao Tieh
Yang Chi-Ching
as Lu Man Tien / Navigator of Lung Men Soc
Ching Miao
as Hsien Lung / Helmsman of Lung Men Soc
Ai Fei
as I Fu
Wang Hsieh
as Wan Pengwang
Lam Wai-Tiu
as Nan Kung-yuan
Chen Ping
as Kao Lao-ta
Ling Yun
as Yeh Hsiang
Fan Mei-Sheng
as Ma Fang-chung
Crew
Director
- Chor Yuen
Writer
- Ni Kuang
Producer
- Runme Shaw
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Killer Clans 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 Chor Yuen 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 1976, 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 Killer Clans took approximately 24 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 101 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 149 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 3 months to complete.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1976, when this film was released:
- Environmental awareness was growing as a social concern.
- Economic recession and oil crises were affecting global economies.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Killer Clans shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike My Wife Is a Gangster, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Killer Clans subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like My Wife Is A Gangster 2 and Dragons Forever explore similar territory, Killer Clans 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 20, 1976
- Runtime: 1h 41m
Where to Watch
