Watches
September 28, 2021
Vintage Yuen Chor. Though maybe one of the Shaw Bros directors who tried out working in the most different genres, he is best known for his particular blend of martial arts and fantasy, focusing more on mood and mystique than action and acrobatics. Clans of Intrigue is a perfect example, making this a prime entry film for people wanting to explore Chor's oeuvre.
Hsiang is known in the world of martial artists as a master thief. When three prominent men are found dead, poisoned, people suspect Hsiang is the killer. He claims he is being set up, but the only way to prove his Innocence is by unmasking the real killers. He sets off on a perilous journey, guided only by a handful of clues.
After seeing oodles of Shaw Bros films, something like Clans of Intrigue does have trouble standing out. The characters, the plot, the trademark sets, it's everything you'd expect from a 70s Shaw Bros production. But Chor's set designs and eye for visual detail do stand out. Not as much as with some of his best films, but it makes that Clan of Intrigue is a worthwhile genre flick.
More by the director
Yuen Chor

Descendant of the Sun

Duel for Gold

Heroes Shed No Tears

Iron Chain Fighter

Perils of the Sentimental Swordsman

Death Duel

Duel of the Century

Intimate Confessions of a Chinese Courtesan

Lust for Love of a Chinese Courtesan

Return of the Sentimental Swordsman

Sex, Love and Hate

Swordsman and Enchantress

The Bastard

The Black Lizard

The Lizard

The Magic Blade

The Proud Twins

The Roving Swordsman

The Sentimental Swordsman

The Spirit of the Sword

The Web of Death

Full Moon Scimitar

Killer Clans

Bat without Wings

Hong Kong 73

Lover's Destiny

Sleazy Dizzy

The Villains

Diary of a Big Man

Fascinating Affairs

Haunted Tales

The Big Holdup

The House of 72 Tenants

Farewell to a Warrior
