Five Deadly Venoms (1978) Review in 2025
Five Deadly Venoms is a classic Shaw Brothers martial arts film that follows a young kung fu student as he seeks revenge against the five deadly venoms who killed his master. The film is known for its innovative fight choreography and memorable characters.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
Not recommended for young children due to intense martial arts violence and some mature themes.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is a must-watch for fans of martial arts and action films. It's a classic Shaw Brothers film that has stood the test of time, and its innovative fight choreography and memorable characters make it a true masterpiece.
Spoiler Alert!
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The story revolves around a young kung fu student named Chiang Sing who seeks revenge against the five deadly venoms who killed his master. He eventually discovers that the venoms are actually five brothers who were trained by a powerful martial arts master. Chiang Sing then faces off against each of the venoms in a series of intense battles, using his own unique fighting style to take them down.
Review Details
story8.00/10
The story is engaging and well-paced, with a clear structure and a satisfying conclusion. However, the plot is not particularly original and some of the characters feel a bit one-dimensional.
acting8.50/10
The acting is generally good, with the cast delivering solid performances across the board. However, some of the actors feel a bit wooden at times, and the dialogue can be a bit stilted.
characters8.50/10
The characters are well-developed and memorable, with each of the five venoms having their own unique personality and fighting style. Chiang Sing is also a likable protagonist who drives the story forward.
direction9.00/10
The direction is excellent, with Cheh Chang using a variety of innovative camera angles and fight choreography to create a visually stunning film. The pacing is also well-balanced, with a good mix of action and drama.
cinematography9.00/10
The cinematography is outstanding, with a clear and crisp image that showcases the film's impressive fight choreography. The use of color and lighting is also effective in creating a moody and atmospheric tone.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Innovative fight choreography, memorable characters, and a satisfying story make this movie a true classic.
Cons
Some of the characters feel a bit one-dimensional, and the plot is not particularly original.
Notable Quotes
"A man who can't defend himself is not a man."
"A true warrior must be willing to sacrifice everything for the greater good."
