Hand of Death 1976
"The hand of death strikes in 18 mysterious ways!"
In *Hand of Death (1976)*, the legendary John Woo crafts a martial arts masterpiece steeped in vengeance and redemption.
Director: John Woo
Cast
Dorian Tan Tao-Liang
Yung Fei
James Tien Chun
Commander Shih
Jackie Chan
Little Tan
Kim Yeong-suk
Autumn Moon
Sammo Hung Kam-Bo
Du Qing
Yeung Wai
The Wanderer
Mu Szu-Cheng
Little Tan's Brother
Kim Ki-joo
Ma Lieh, "Smiling Fox"
Jin Bong-jin
Patriot
John Woo
Zhang Yi
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hand of Death (1976) about?
The film follows a young Shaolin monk who must confront a ruthless warlord using the devastating Extended Iron Claw technique. To survive, he trains rigorously to defend his temple and uphold his beliefs in the face of overwhelming brutality.
Who directed Hand of Death?
John Woo, the acclaimed filmmaker known for his stylish action films like *The Killer* and *Face/Off*, directed *Hand of Death*.
Who stars in Hand of Death?
The film features Jackie Chan, James Tien Chun, Dorian Tan Tao-Liang, Sammo Hung Kam-Bo, and Kim Yeong-suk in pivotal roles.
Is Hand of Death (1976) worth watching?
As an early John Woo effort, *Hand of Death* offers a glimpse into his evolving style and the martial arts genre's golden era. While not as polished as his later works, its raw action and thematic depth make it a solid watch for fans of classic kung fu films.
How long is Hand of Death?
The runtime of *Hand of Death* is 97 minutes.
🎥 Trailer
About Hand of Death (1976) — A John Woo Martial Arts Classic Explored
In *Hand of Death (1976)*, the legendary John Woo crafts a martial arts masterpiece steeped in vengeance and redemption. Set against the rugged backdrop of a war-torn Shaolin temple, the story follows a young monk thrust into a brutal battle against a merciless warlord wielding the deadly Extended Iron Claw technique. The film's atmosphere crackles with tension, blending stunning fight choreography with deep thematic layers of honor, survival, and the cost of power. Woo's signature style—precise action sequences and emotional depth—shines, making this a standout in early martial arts cinema.
As the monk trains to master his own skills, the stakes rise with every clash, culminating in a climactic showdown that tests both body and spirit. The film's gritty tone and relentless pacing draw viewers into a world where every strike could mean life or death. With a cast of rising action stars, *Hand of Death (1976)* delivers an unforgettable blend of adrenaline and drama.
