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SNUFF
BOTTLE CONNECTION (1977)
Reviewed
by Andrew Saroch
John
Liu once again takes the part of a super-fighting hero who is
faced with a typically formidable foe. This time the legendary
kicker is on the trail of a symbolic snuff-bottle which acts
as a form of identification between the heinous Manchus and
their Russian allies. As is to be expected, the task will not
be easy as the much sought after article has attracted the
attention of all the parties. The stakes are raised when the
snuff-bottle falls into the hands of an invincible villain who
uses it to conduct his own transactions with the Russians.
Liu's only hope is to team up with a mischievous yet
resourceful fighter who finally notes the patriotic need of
the mission. Together the two face a rogues' gallery of
opponents before the ultimate conflict against their
mysterious rival.
'Snuff-Bottle
Connection' is another of those films that seems to have
acquired an enormous cult reputation even though it remains
hard to find on any format. This reputation is totally
justified though as this is an excellent traditional kung-fu
film that certainly doesn't rest on its laurels. Any fan of
John Liu will not be disappointed as he once again blazes
across the screen with a barrage of superkicks that few would
ever pull off. Hwang Jang Lee is fairly restrained until the
last thirty minutes where he then reminds audiences that he
truly was a unique figure in Hong Kong cinema. Indeed the
concluding battle features these two masters of their craft
engaging in another blistering duel. Of added note is the
choreography by Yuen Woo Ping; even at this relatively early
stage in his career, Yuen gave an indication that he was among
the very best in the business.
Without
doubt this is a powerhouse film that will satisfy even the
most demanding fans of the Jade Screen. Worth tracking down at
all costs.
Rating:
 
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