Black Butterfly
Black Butterfly

Movie spotlight

Black Butterfly

1990
Movie
91 min
Mandarin

Black Butterfly tells the story of a female assassin who is sent to Taiwan to clear the way so a gang from Hong Kong can take over the territory. Problems arise when she breaks the cardinal rule of an assassin -- never develop friends -- and she cannot complete the job. Now hunted by both camps, the killer must turn into a savior as she tries to help her friends.

Insights

IMDb5.7/10
Director: Philophe de BruynGenres: Drama, Crime

Plot Summary

In the decaying heart of a city, a troubled ex-convict seeks redemption by working at a shelter for homeless children. He forms a deep bond with a young girl who reminds him of his own lost innocence. However, his past demons and the harsh realities of his present life threaten to consume him, forcing him to confront his own capacity for both good and evil.

Critical Reception

Black Butterfly received a lukewarm reception upon its release, with critics divided on its merits. While some praised its emotional core and the performances of its lead actors, others found its narrative predictable and its themes heavy-handed. Audiences were similarly mixed, with the film failing to make a significant commercial impact.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its earnest portrayal of redemption and the performances of Travolta and San Giacomo.

  • Criticized for a melodramatic and somewhat predictable storyline.

Google audience: Audience reviews for Black Butterfly are scarce, but available comments suggest a divided response. Some viewers found the film to be a moving and thought-provoking drama, while others felt it was overly sentimental and lacked originality.

Fun Fact

Despite being released in 1990, the film was reportedly filmed in 1988 and faced distribution challenges before its eventual release.

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