From Covert Ops to Cinematic Ops

Read Time:5 Minute, 6 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Super Spies And Secret Lies –
The Golden Buddha (Jin pu sa)
Angel with the Iron Fists (Tie guan yin)
The Singing Thief (Da dao ge wang)

Genre: Action, Adventure / Thriller / Adventure, Musical, Mystery
Year Released: 1966 / 1967 / 1969
Runtime: 1h 44m / 2h 2m / 1h 27m
Director(s): Wei Lo / Cheh Chang
Writer(s): Wei Shih / Kang-Chien Chiu
Cast: Zaldy Zshornack, Perla Bautista, Alfonso Carvajal / Lily Ho, Fanny Fan, Tina Chin-Fei / Lily Ho, Jimmy Lin Chong, Chia Essie Lin
Where To Watch: available December 3, 2024; pre-order your copy here: www.eurekavideo.co.uk, www.mvdshop.com, or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: When the swinging sixties exploded onto cinema screens, they brought a flurry of slick, stylish espionage thrillers epitomized by the James Bond phenomenon. Not to be left in the dust, Hong Kong's revered Shaw Brothers Studio injected their flair into this frenetic genre, presented in their SUPER SPIES AND SECRET LIES collection. This trio of films, THE GOLDEN BUDDHA, ANGEL WITH THE IRON FISTS, and THE SINGING THIEF, not only embraced the era's penchant for spy antics but also infused it with a distinctive cultural zest that set it apart from Western interpretations.

SUPER SPIES AND SECRET LIES is a time capsule that encapsulates the Shaw Brothers' inventive take on the spy genre. Each film in the collection is a vibrant take that showcases the studio's ability to blend the traditional espionage narrative with an intoxicating infusion of local culture, setting these films apart from countless others. From the bustling streets of Hong Kong to the lush landscapes of rural China, the settings become a backdrop for intrigue and adventure that is as visually compelling as it is narratively engaging.

Lo Wei's THE GOLDEN BUDDHA perfectly illustrates this blend. It features the charismatic Paul Chang Chung as Paul, who brings a more accessible charm to the mysterious and dangerous world of spies. Unlike the often unattainable James Bond, Paul is relatable and captivating, maneuvering through a maze of peril with a suaveness peppered with a relatable vulnerability. His journey through shadowy deals and treacherous foes is punctuated by set pieces and flamboyantly dressed villains, adding a playful tone to the suspense-filled plot.

Taking a dramatic turn from the typical male-centric spy story, ANGEL WITH THE IRON FISTS centers its plot on the formidable Luo Na, played by Lily Ho. As a spy, Luo Na is both a beacon of strength and a master of deception, equipped with an arsenal of gadgets that could rival any found in Bond's universe. This film plays with genres, oscillating between intense espionage sequences and moments of lighthearted camp, providing a fresh take on the traditional spy narrative.

Perhaps the most genre-defying entry, THE SINGING THIEF, under Chang Cheh’s direction, mixes crime, music, and martial arts into an exhilarating blend that keeps viewers on their toes. Diamond Poon, portrayed by Jimmy Lin Chung, transitions from a notorious thief to a celebrated singer, all while being embroiled in accusations and dramatic confrontations. The film's choreography, particularly in the climactic fight scenes, showcases the studio’s flair for action, making it a visual and adrenaline-pumping treat.

The Blu-ray restoration of these films offers a renewed vibrancy that highlights the Shaw Brothers' dedication to style and visual flair. The eye-popping colors and intricate production design, from the era’s inspired wardrobes to the opulent sets of the Skeleton Gang's lair, are displayed in all their glory, providing a feast for the eyes that enhances the viewing experience.

SUPER SPIES AND SECRET LIES is a tribute to a bygone era of cinematic trial. It shows how the Shaw Brothers left a lasting mark on the spy genre, blending action-packed narratives with rich cultural insights. This anthology is essential viewing for anyone who appreciates the art of cinema and the thrilling escapades of classic spy films. It reminds us that the heart of a good spy story lies not just in its action or protagonist but in its ability to transport us to a world of intrigue and peril, making every scene as captivating as the next.

Bonus Materials
Limited edition of 2000 copies only
Limited edition O-Card slipcase featuring new artwork by Darren Wheeling
1080p HD presentations on Blu-ray from masters supplied by Celestial Pictures
Original mono audio tracks
Optional English subtitles, newly translated for this release
New audio commentaries by action cinema experts Mike Leeder and Arne Venema
International Super Spies – A new interview with James Bond expert Llewella Chapman on global Bondmania in the 1960s
A new interview with Hong Kong cinema scholar Wayne Wong, editor of Martial Arts Studies
Reversible sleeve featuring individual sleeve artwork for each film
Original trailers
PLUS: A limited edition collector's booklet featuring new writing on all three films by Iain Robert Smith, author of The Hollywood Meme: Transnational Adaptations in World Cinema

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[photo courtesy of EUREKA ENTERTAINMENT, MVD ENTERTAINMENT]

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