Review of Duel to the Death (1983) by Juan C — 08 Mar 2010
Duel to the Death is set up as an epic, with an exhibition battle between China and Japan to honour the nation of the victor. The film is also shot extremely well by the director who would go onto make Hero, and this cinematic flair continues throughout. There is even room for several subplots that all payoff as a sense of mystery exists within the film.
The main draw card of this film is the ninjas. They exist in all forms possible. Library ninjas. Giant ninjas. Flying ninjas. Naked ninjas. Kite ninjas. Exploding ninjas. It really is quite ingenious and a spectacle.
There is also a scene where the monks are having a party which is quite hilarious, elevated by their silhouettes. This scene was also preceded by perhaps the shortest characterization and subplot in the history of cinema. Within seconds of the introduction of a master, he dies in a different scene delivering a message of value to the Japanese lead.
All subplots combine and lead to a fantastic climatic battle. One that seemed promised in Kill Bill, but never eventuated. There is also a poetic edge to this battle as the sun rises ad the blood flows.
This review of Duel to the Death (1983) was written by Juan C on 08 Mar 2010.
Duel to the Death has generally received positive reviews.
Was this review helpful?
