The Kiss of Death
The Kiss of Death

Movie spotlight

The Kiss of Death

1973
Movie
98 min
Mandarin

One night a textile worker is sexually assaulted by five deviants. The young lady tries to cope with the aftermath of this dramatic event but her life is ruined. Like a shattered vase, the pieces can be put back together but it'll never be the same. Cheng get's a job as a bar girl. She meets the club's owner who was a former kung-fu fighter until he was crippled. Cheng uses her position as a B-girl to go after the losers who raped her, She soon learns from a sleazy doctor that she has contracted a dark V.D. called Viet-Nam Rose. Crushed, she begs Lo Lieh to teach her kung-fu. At first he refuses until he learns her secret. Furious, Lo Lieh teaches her his deadly fight techniques (such as a groin crunching blow).

Insights

IMDb6.3/10
Director: Robert Brooks (credited as Robert Brooks)Genres: Crime, Drama, Thriller

Plot Summary

Set in Sydney, this film follows the intertwined lives of a group of criminals. When a rival gang threatens their territory, escalating tensions lead to a violent confrontation. The narrative explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the harsh realities of the underworld.

Critical Reception

The Kiss of Death received mixed to positive reviews, with particular praise for its gritty realism and strong performances, especially from its ensemble cast. Some critics noted its raw depiction of violence, while others appreciated its unflinching look at Australian crime.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its authentic portrayal of the criminal milieu.

  • Noted for strong performances from a talented Australian cast.

  • Some found the violence to be gratuitous, while others saw it as integral to the story.

Google audience: Audience reception is not widely available, but general commentary often highlights its status as a cult classic within Australian cinema.

Awards & Accolades

None notable.

Fun Fact

The film was an early feature for several notable Australian actors, including Jack Thompson and Bryan Brown, who would go on to significant careers in Australian and international cinema.

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