A Gritty Tale of Revenge and Justice

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MOVIE REVIEW
Kill Butterfly Kill (Underground Wife, Hei shi fu ren)
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Genre: Thriller
Year Released: 1982, 2023 Cauldron Films Blu-ray
Runtime: 1h 27m
Director(s): Yu-Lung Hsu
Writer(s): Ching-Kang Yao
Cast: “Tattooer Ma” Sha, Juliet Chan, Mike Abbot, Mark Miller
Where To Watch: standard edition available December 12, 2023; pre-order www.cauldron-films.com, www.mvdshop.com, or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: In the early 1980s, Taiwanese cinema gave us KILL BUTTERFLY KILL, a film that stands out as a visual powerhouse. This film defies genre norms to deliver a striking tale of vengeance and societal reflection. Set against a backdrop of political and social upheaval, this film, a jewel in the 'Black Movie' genre of “social-realist crime films,” offers an unfiltered look into the complexities of Taiwanese society. Juliet Chan's intense portrayal of a woman on a quest for retribution, supported by "Tattooer Ma" Sha's “empathetic” hitman, creates a riveting, emotionally charged, and thought-provoking dynamic.

Yu-Lung Hsu, the director, showcases a blend of past and “present” in his storytelling, crafting a narrative that's both a journey through time and an exploration of deep-seated emotions. The clever use of flashbacks is not just a storytelling device but a potent mechanism that intensifies the film's narrative. KILL BUTTERFLY KILL strikes a delicate yet powerful balance between being a commentary on societal issues and an action-packed cinematic experience, significantly departing from the typical exploitation film.

One of the most intriguing aspects of KILL BUTTERFLY KILL is its multifaceted nature. The film presents itself in various versions, including an English-dubbed version, which adds an exciting layer to its rich narrative tapestry. From the Mandarin original to its action-centric adaptations, each version offers a unique perspective, showcasing the film's adaptability across different cultural lenses. Adding the cut of AMERICAN COMMANDO 6: KILL BUTTERFLY KILL into its collection reflects the adventurous spirit of that cinematic era, highlighting the film's experimental and innovative edge.

KILL BUTTERFLY KILL, while a cinematic treasure in the annals of Taiwanese film history, is far from a perfect film, with a storyline that needed more cohesion, and some action sequences suggest more of what could have been than what we got. Despite these minor shortcomings, the film is a testament to Taiwanese filmmakers' creative resilience and narrative ingenuity during significant change. It’s also a film experience not to be missed; while some sensitive moments in the film could be triggering, the larger narrative of revenge is an empowering journey.

Beyond being a mere revenge thriller, KILL BUTTERFLY KILL is an immersive exploration into the heart of a society transforming. It's a bold statement in filmmaking that captures the essence of a changing Taiwan. The restoration and continued celebration of this film not only pay homage to a pivotal moment in cinematic history but also underscore the lasting impact of this genre on Asian cinema at large. White Cauldron Films admits some scene restorations aren’t perfect; I don’t think they detract from the experience; it’s clear that they focused on giving the best experience they could.

KILL BUTTERFLY KILL is an odyssey that weaves through Taiwan's emotional and societal fabric. This film is a raw, accurate portrayal of life's darker moments, offering a genuine and sometimes gritty window into the realities of its setting. For anyone venturing into Taiwanese cinema, KILL BUTTERFLY KILL is a must-watch, with action, emotion, and a deep dive into cultural and societal nuances that resonate as much today as they did in the film's heyday.

Bonus Materials
– Kill Butterfly Kill (Original IFD edit)
– Optional English SDH subtitles
– Audio commentary by Kenneth Brorsson and Paul Fox of the Podcast on Fire Network
– “Underground Wife” cut (SD)
– Kill Butterfly Kill trailer (HD)
– American Commando 6: Kill Butterfly Kill (Alternate cut)
– American Commando 6: Kill Butterfly Kill trailer (HD)
– IFD trailer comp (SD)
– 2 Disc Special Edition

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[photo courtesy of CAULDRON FILMS, MVD ENTERTAINMENT]