Cast Member: Chiang Sheng

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.

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

It’s a shame to report that ‘Legend of the Fox’, while peppered with solid characters and decent fisticuffs, is a frustrating experience.

Although this isn’t the best Venoms film, it certainly isn’t the worst and still features a hundred reasons why it should be recommended viewing.

‘Ninja In The USA’ certainly isn’t anything special but it’s still a fairly pleasing low-budget chop socky that has some well-handled action.

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

‘Shaolin Temple’ is still a major achievement by a film-maker who was one of the true creators of the genre. There is, therefore, plenty to put this near the top of your viewing list.

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.

The three films are of course better if viewed as one long film, but that is partially the undoing of this third instalment due to it’s comparatively slow pacing following the hectic earlier instalments.

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