Action Member: Robert Tai

Perhaps Billy Chong’s most polished and constantly entertaining film, ‘A Fistful Of Talons’ takes a well-used storyline and turns it into something much more original.

This is probably one of the most acrobatic Venoms films as they participate in some extremely complicated routines that are brilliantly put together.

‘Heaven and Hell’ is actually a whole lot more interesting, and engaging, than one would outwardly expect from its (largely) negative reputation.

‘Incredible Kung Fu Mission’ is peppered with a decent mix of humour, sentimentality and superior fight action, creating a solid independent feature.

Chang Cheh weaves intrigue into the plot along with a clear sense of humanity and even humour.

If you’re a big Robert Tai fan, add a star to the following mark; most though should see ‘Mafia vs. Ninja’ as a cheap and cheerful mix of kung fu and surrealism.

Although the plot may be somewhat lacking, ‘Ninja Vs. Shaolin Guards’ remains a very entertaining outing thanks to a wealth of well crafted kung fu fights.

Although an above average kung-fu flick (as you’d expect from Chang Cheh) this is one of the weakest of the Venoms films.

The final word is that this is highly recommended for the teaming of fifteen or so of the top stars of the Shaw Brothers era. As a stand-alone production though, ‘Ten Tigers Of Kwantung’ is not Chang Cheh’s best.

Unfortunately ‘The Brave Archer’ is one of Chang Cheh’s least assured efforts as he foolishly tries to fit in all of the sub-plots and characters of this vast novel.

It can not be regarded as a classic of the genre, but can be hailed as a valiant attempt at faithfully adapting difficult source material.

‘The Daredevils’ is a fine opportunity to savour a great team of performers who always appear to be so comfortable together.