Movie spotlight
Assassin
Hsu Feng plays Shu Mei, the female assassin engaged to Ling Tien-yu, a swordsman played by Tien Peng. As they are fighting against the Mongolian army that is invading China, Shu Mei takes up a suicidal mission to assassinate the Mongolian chieftain. Again, Hsu Feng appears as a brave swordswoman in the film. In the beginning, she sacrifices her love life and then dressed in white, she fights with dual blades, chains and bare hands against the enemy. Hsu Feng not only shows great fighting skills but brings the character vividly to life. It is not surprising that she won Best Leading Actress at the 1976 Golden Horse Awards. Moreover, the impressive face-changing trick is seen in the film.
Insights
Plot Summary
A mysterious woman hires a professional killer to assassinate a corrupt financier who is responsible for the ruin of her family. As the killer closes in, he discovers that the woman is not who she seems, and the target may be more complex than he initially believed. The situation escalates into a tense game of cat and mouse with deadly consequences.
Critical Reception
Assassin received a mixed reception upon its release. While some critics praised its suspenseful plot and the performances of its lead actors, others found its narrative convoluted and its pacing uneven. The film did not achieve significant commercial success or widespread critical acclaim.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its suspenseful premise and a few standout performances.
Criticized for a convoluted plot that sometimes undermines the thriller elements.
Seen as a competent, if unremarkable, entry in the assassin genre of the 1970s.
Google audience: Audience reception is difficult to gauge due to limited available data, but the film is generally considered an average thriller from its era. Some viewers appreciate its classic 70s atmosphere and straightforward plot, while others find it dated and lacking in originality.
Fun Fact
The film was shot on location in both London and Luxembourg, adding a European flair to its international thriller atmosphere.
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