The Poison Clan
"The World's fascination with - The Venoms"
Poisonous Beginnings
The film was called The 5 Deadly Venoms; and whether you saw it on Blackbelt Theater, Drive-In Movie, or Samurai Sunday - you immediately became hooked on this group of fighters. Through an international release, it became so popular with martial-arts fans around the world, that it has become a cult-classic. During this time (when their names weren't known), fans identified the film's stars, only as the Venoms. While people weren't trying to stereo-type their personas to that one film, they found it easier to remember them by this name. What would also help fans, was the fact that, they always appeared in films together, making it harder to miss one of their films.
Each member of the group, had certain qualities and skills, that would (later) help them achieve their own fanbase. Not only were the main members of the group talented, there were a number of supporting stuntmen/actors, that helped to make their films, some of the most entertaining ones around. They would become known as the Venom Mob and were seen in every film, that the group made. While, most were concentrating on infusing their films with silly Comedy (a la Jackie Chan-style), their films always seemed to have a mixture of Acrobatics, Weaponry, and Bloodshed.
Though, comedy had it's place, it was not the focal point of any of their films, nor did the action stray, for laughter's sake. All their movements were crisp and clean, obviously, from their training and the time spent on perfecting their (excellent) choreography skills. Each worked in a variety of roles and all got to explore roles that kept their films Action-driven, with interesting storylines. Soon, fans around the world wanted to know more about them and what other films they's starred in. As their popularity grew, a number of questions arose, pertaining to everything from where they came from, to what styles did they (really) know.
In reading over a previous page, that I had written of them, I felt that it was too short and left out so much, that could help to answer a lot of the questions (about them and their time at Shaw Bros' studio). I found it hard to tell (5) stories on one page, especially, since, each story seems interwoven, into others. I had gotten so involved in researching stuff, that I put one article on hold, just to write this one. That was in (2006). There was more to their story, than just that (1) film and its' central characters. On the following pages, I hope to show How, they have contributed to some of the genre's most exciting films.
Food For Thought
Original Spiderman aired Sept. 9, 1967 - June 14, 1970. A Spiderman TV series aired on CBS April 19, 1977 = (16) months before Chang's film hit the screen. Toei did a version of Spiderman - May 17, 1978 - March 14, 1979.
"Chinese cartoon makers have fought a two-decade uphill battle to gain on foreign rivals. Yet, Chinese people still prefer cartoon figures and products that use cartoon characters created in the United States, Japan and Europe over those invented there."
Comic Books
Wonder Woman (1942) The Crimson Centipede (man)
The Scorpion (in Spiderman Comics), now goes by the name Venom
"Chinese cartoon makers have fought a two-decade uphill battle to gain on foreign rivals. Yet, Chinese people still prefer cartoon figures and products that use cartoon characters created in the United States, Japan and Europe over those invented there."
Comic Books
Wonder Woman (1942) The Crimson Centipede (man)
The Scorpion (in Spiderman Comics), now goes by the name Venom
As a kid, I'd always loved watching cartoons and while researching tapes and films for this article, I was surprised with what I found. Considering the fact, that an enormous amount of American programs found their way to the Orient (Cartoons included), what I'm about to propose, might not be too far-fetched. The Saturday morning cartoon Spider-Man (1967), featured a number of characters, that wound up, in the film The 5 Venoms, some (10) years later. Were Asian talents - I Kuang, Chu Yuan, Ku Long inspired by this American cartoon so much so, that they used them as the proto-type for their film, The Web Of Death ? While, some might think that this notion is absurd, A man with Spider-like abilities?, a man who can climb like a Lizard ?, a Scorpion man ? - these things weren't a part of everyday Hong Kong cinema.
Cartoons come from Comics, which (themselves) use Storyboards (illustrations displayed in sequence), that let the reader follow what was going on. While, some may laugh, it is possible, as cartoons have (often) became feature films, based on their central characters. If, this was true, the series would have an underlying connection, to a few of the Venom characters, we've come to know. Manhua are Chinese comics that were produced in China, which gave the artist a greater degree of freedom (artistically), these were the same, as Japanese Manga. Those who were story-tellers, could have their works recreated, in order to give their readers a visual perspective.
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The Spider, The Lizard, & The Scorpion
The only comic-strip type character, that I can recall coming from China (that was made into a movie), is Old Master Q (1962 - present). Yet, when Bruce Lee became popular, most comic books, started to have characters who knew martial-arts. Here, in America, we saw issues of Deadly Hands Of Kung Fu and Iron Fist, fly off the shelves; as kids became more interested in martial-art heroes. The blockbuster hit, The Storm Riders, came from the comic series Fung Wan, Hong Kong's #1 comic. Uncle Choi (1958 - mid '70s) .
While, the cartoon's central character, was fashioned after a Spider, he battled a number of off-beat characters. In the Toxian-world, they would have been extremely deadly. He's battled The Scorpion, a Lizard Man, even an Octopus. In the series, Poison is never really discussed, but it is the fact that, this is the only series dealing with such creatures, that could have been seen on Asian televisions, dealing with these same characters. Cartoons have long been a mainstay of may countries televison programing (a built-in Baby-sitter, if you will) and popular programs, often, find themselves distributed in foreign markets.
For every Superman, Batman, or Bugs Bunny cartoon, we'd find ourselves watching - Speed Racer, Bat Fink, and Gigantor cartoons, from our Overseas counterparts. But, these mainly, came from Japan, as China only imported cartoons, etc.... from the United States, to add to their programming roster. What was so interesting, was the fact that China didn't really have a hand in the production of cartoons being shipped to other countries. Yet, the influx of cartoons into their country, was enormous.
The Web Of Death
If we were to (truly) look back to where it all started, we'd have to go back to (1976), a year before The Chinatown Kid. Chief writer I Kuang, had written a script for the film Web Of Death, that dealt with the Martial World and conflict between clans. Released on (10-28-1976), the film's premise was about The Poison Clan and their reign over opposing clans, as well as the power struggle, within their own clan.
There were certain members, who sought to use their skills for evil purposes, in order to prove their dominance. They used ruthless tactics, on anyone who stood in their way (even former members), of reigning supreme. In Chang Cheh's version, they were still a powerful clan and they still had conflicts between members, but (now) they sought to become rich, by any means necessary.
There were certain members, who sought to use their skills for evil purposes, in order to prove their dominance. They used ruthless tactics, on anyone who stood in their way (even former members), of reigning supreme. In Chang Cheh's version, they were still a powerful clan and they still had conflicts between members, but (now) they sought to become rich, by any means necessary.
His classic - The 5 Deadly Venoms, pitted (3) evil students against (3) good ones, with one student on a mission from their teacher. He was to see that the others donate, whatever money their clan had stolen over the years, to a charity. Standing in his way, were the his teacher (former) disciples - men who were far more skilled than he was. They sought to silence anyone who stood in their way (or knew of their background). Because of their use of toxians, they became one of the most feared clans in the martial world. The most potent of all poisons (in this film) was the Spider Venom. While, the Spider was the key element to the whole film, there were also references to the Snake, Toad, Scorpion, and Centipede.
Interesting Notes
In this film, none of the exponents hid their identities and everyone knew who the other was. There was no specific training seen in the film and each person was shown, as being much older, than in Chang's film. Here, we get another look at elements depicted in the later version - Members choosing to murder within their own group, to gain money, fortune, and fame. As in the classic film, the (2) top evil members are the Centipede and the Snake -- The #1 (their leader), was The Spider. In Chang's version, it is not known, if their teacher had anything to do, with the Spider, as it is not referenced in the movie, at all (nor is the former teacher played by Ku Feng).
The Hideout
Here, they all got together, in their own secret hideout (filled with trap-doors and pathways) and their clan consisted of both - men and women. Some, used weapons fashioned after their namesakes; such as The Spider, the Snake, and the Centipede. While, an interesting film, it lacked the dark atmosphere and the magnetic chemistry, that the later film had. The story was more drawn out and the fight-scenes, left a lot to be desired (considering both films were shot less than 2-years apart). Yet, the biggest difference between the (2) films, was the fact that -- The Web Of Death was more of a Swordplay film, while Chang's version, was strictly Kung Fu.
Poison VS Venom
These terms are often used interchangeably, but they (actually) have very different meanings. It is the delivery method, that distinguishes one from the other. Poison is absorbed or ingested; a poisonous animal can only deliver toxic chemicals, if another animal touches or eats it. Venom, on the other hand, is always injected.
The Snake
Speed of Attacks, mobility, able to fight from any position (even on it's back).
A master of stealth and very cunning in it's method of attack and defense.
A master of stealth and very cunning in it's method of attack and defense.
The Centipede
Lightning fast attacks, using such speed, that it seems that the exponent had
additional arms and legs, when he hit his target.
additional arms and legs, when he hit his target.
The Scorpion
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This exponent is also an expert in acupuncture, which helps in the location of vital points.
The arms are used to hold an opponent, while using devastating kicks, with paralyzing accuracy. |
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The Toad
This exponent possess extraordinary strength. Able to bend metal with his bare hands, of the
venoms he was considered nearly invincible.
venoms he was considered nearly invincible.
The Spider
The most mysterious member of the Poison Clan, this exponent was the original leader of the group.
Film Referrences
The Brave Archer Series (7-30-77)
Brave Archer - The Beggar Clan Vs The Poison Clan (Eastern Evil (Poison), Western Poison (WLW) - brought out later?
The Sentimental Swordsman (10-14-77)
Almost a (1) year before Chang's film would debut, the Poison Clan would be referrenced in, yet, another Chu Yuan classic. In the film The Sentimental Swordsman (1977), the Poison Clan was used as mysterious assassins. Here, they used the services of men, women, and children, to lure hungry fighters into eating poisonous food.
The leader was known as the "5-Poisons Kid" -- who was shown, biting the head off of a poisonous snake. His weapon of choice were called "Cold Poison Needles" - which were poisonous needles, used to paralyze his victims. They recalled the Scorpion's "Telson" (stinger) and its' use to paralyze its' prey. The object wasn't to kill the prey right away, but to maim it, so that it had no ability to fight back or run.
In this film, there were references made to the (5) Original poisonous creatures. The Centipede - which was used in poisoning the water at the tavern, the poisonous Spider - that Erh Tung-Sheng took off on Ching Li's neck, the poisonous Toads - that seemed to fall from the sky, and the Snakes - that were thrown at Ti Lung and the monk (right before they met the "5 Poison Kid"). Here, they are given the impression that the Scorpion, was the leader. Again, there was no sign of a Lizard character (poisonous or otherwise), leaning more to the fact, that there never (initially) was such a character.
The Proud Youth (3-30-78)
Five month's prior, the "5 Venom Clan" was mentioned in the Sun Chung film, The Proud Youth (1977). The chief of the clan (Lan Feng-Huang), was a woman (as it was originally written), yet, she did no fighting. This was the only (direct) connection to the Venoms' film, as all the clan members depicted here, were females. All literature pertaining to the Poison clan, have never suggested, that they were all women.
Yet, it brought up the truth, that a woman was supposed to have been the eader, of the original Venoms Clan. One might think that, since most knew of The 5 Deadly Venoms, that, this was why they were mentioned. In actuality, Chang's film was released nearly (5) months after Sun Chung's film and the Venoms (as most know them), hadn't debuted as an official group, yet. Ironically, all (3) of these films were made in (1977) and released, the following year. Of the (3) films, Chang's version is the most famous and widely known.
Poison For Poison (4-26-78)
Made and released before The 5 Deadly Venoms, was the obscure Chang film - Poison For Poison. While, the title suggests that it had something to do with Poison, it was actually, the film, Lifes Gambles. Though, Alexander Fu-Sheng appears to be the films lead star (film's group photo shows him, dressed in Black and strategically protruding from the center), he, actually, had a Co-starring role (his first since becoming a major star). The real star of the film, was Kuo Chui, in his first leading role. +++
This film, had all the makings of the original cult-classic (The 5 Deadly Venoms), minus two of the films prominent stars - Sun Chien and Wei Pai. Yet, it set the stage, for the future union of Chang's new group of actors and stuntmen. Here, we find Shaw actors - Li i-Min and Tang Yen-San, in roles that could have easily, been meant for Sun and Wei. What was even more ironic, was the fact that the exact outfit, worn by Tang Yen-San, was (later) worn by Sun Chien, in The 5 Deadly Venoms. Outside of color, the same would have been true, for Li I-Min and Wei Pai's character's clothing (complete with hair-do and chain around the neck).
This film was released twice, first in Taiwan (4-26-78) - possibly to "Test-the-waters" and see how well his new group would fare and to keep his winning ways, on the minds of movie-goers there. Remember - Chang already had a following there, having made numerous films there (through his Chang's Film company). When he closed down his company and went back to Shaw Brothers studios, all of his subsequent films were shot in Hong Kong. The second time it was released, it was in Hong Kong (02-22-79). This was done, because Chang had lost some of his members (Robert Tai, Wei Pai) and used this film (in the interim), to buy him some time (to regroup his players).
Spiders & Snakes
Contrary to what we know about the Venoms, in the Original story, all of the players were different. While, no one could begin to imagine, other actors in these roles, it was indeed, true. Least than (2) years before Chang's gang took center-stage, as one of the studios standout Martial-arts teams, Chu Yuan spun a tale of murder and intrigue, that would, later, spawn a cult-classic. Here, we will look at the Poison Clan, as they appeared in the film, The Web Of Death.
The Snake
Lo Lieh's portrayal of the Snake, seemed to hint more towards his "Sly and slippery" ways, not his technique. The treachery within the clan was still there, but, the excellent choreography, acrobatics, and chemistry, were all missing. The Snake (here), had no real technique, as he used any means necessary, to meet his evil ends. His weapon of choice, was a "Snake-head" contraption (that spit fire and smoke), while trying to subdue others in a quest for dominance.
Here, he set out to become the sole ruler of The Martial World, by controlling others with the use of the deadly Spider Venom. His character, was much more cunning, than his successor and just as ruthless. While, he has shown his adaptability in countless films -- here, he (Lo Lieh) is only working his acting chops. There wasn't much physical ability needed (for his portrayal of the Snake) in this film.
Here, he set out to become the sole ruler of The Martial World, by controlling others with the use of the deadly Spider Venom. His character, was much more cunning, than his successor and just as ruthless. While, he has shown his adaptability in countless films -- here, he (Lo Lieh) is only working his acting chops. There wasn't much physical ability needed (for his portrayal of the Snake) in this film.
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Missing Elements
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The Centipede
As in Chang's classic, the Centipede and the Snake aligned themselves together, against others and were the most vicious members in the group. Here, the Centipede, didn't seem to have an identity of his own (again) taking orders from the Snake. In this film, he's portrayed as a Follower, while in Chang's version, the Centipede is the charismatic leader of the group (by Training-status only). Here, he seemed happy, just to be a part of the gang, that has just taken over the Martial World.
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Missing Elements
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The Scorpion
As, with the others, the Scorpion (here), didn't live up to his name. The was no kicking (what-so-ever), associated with the Scorpion, seen here. This was a total letdown, as virtually, every Scorpion portrayed in kung-fu films (The 5 Deadly Venoms, Operation Scorpio) had the ability, to display some awesome kicking skills. The true abilities of this scorpion, were never (really) mentioned, throughout the entire film. He, was, basically, pushed to the background, with nothing to do. There was no Cunning or Mystery about this character, which made his performance seem very weak.
He showed no real skill, but, it is to be said here, that all of these characters were, much older than the Venoms, we all know. This would mean, that the new script killed them off earlier, than Chang Cheh's version. It would have been interesting, to have let them all live and tie the loose-ends up, in a sequel. They could have been imprisioned at the end of the film. The newer version, could have told of their escape and how they each took on students, in order to pass on their unique skill. They could have been the teachers of their namesakes, teaching them how to use their new talents, as well as how to kill.
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Missing Elements
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The Toad
The Toad (portrayed here), seemed as though, he was the cowardliest member, of the Poison Clan. It looked as though, he'd agree with just about anything that was said, as long as he didn't have to fight anyone. His portayal, was so far removed, from the way Lo Mang played him, that it seemed like an insult to the character. As most remembered him, the Toad was a strong, fearless fighter, who needed a virtual army, to stop him.
His body was muscular and impervious to all weapons and most importantly, he was one of the Good guys. The main difference, here, was that every member of their clan was a bad guy. It looked as though, you could have used a broom-stick, to subdue this toad (and without any problems).
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Missing Elements
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The Spider
The evil Red Spider is played by Angela Yu-Chien - CAVE OF THE SILKEN WEB</p>
Spiders were thought to be the "Assassins" of the insect world, because of their methods of stealth, were reminiscent of Ninjas. The way that the silently move around and slowly descend from any height, by using their web, like ninjas use rope. Also using it to ensnare their victims, in order to kill and/or dispose of the later.
The star of this show, is not a person, but a contraption. It's the most potent, of all of the poisons and the object of everyone's desire. Here, the Spider, is the chief of the Poison Clan, who controls everyone with a special weapon, known as the Spider Venom.
The star of this show, is not a person, but a contraption. It's the most potent, of all of the poisons and the object of everyone's desire. Here, the Spider, is the chief of the Poison Clan, who controls everyone with a special weapon, known as the Spider Venom.
It emits a sounds like a wild Elephant and shoots out a paralyzing mist of spray. In this original story, as the leader, everything (including their Hideout) belongs to the Spider. There are webs and "Spider-markings" all over the place. Also, in this film, there was No mention of a Lizard character or it's association to the Poison Clan.
Even stranger, is the Celestial cover for the film, it carrys the (accurate) picture of a Spider on it. Most fans (myself, included), have always believed, that the original poster was correct (showing the Lizard). Yet, it seems that the lizard, was an obvious addition, to the later script and this would become the one, the we've all come to know. Which raises the question, "Why, didn't they have a Spider character, in the remake" ??
I, felt, that the Spider-style, should have been included in The 5 Deadly Venoms, as spiders are not only poisonous -- but, very mysterious creatures, that (often) strike fear in people. To show it as a device (as opposed to a person), took away from the (obvious) action scenes, that could have occured. I, thought that the Spider should have been a person, who could convey the creatures movements onscreen. Considering his nimbleness and agility, Chiang Sheng, would have been perfect, for this role. As the last student taught, his character's background, should've been just as mysterious, as the others.
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Better Than The Original ?
This was to be his first leading role, so what better way, to add more action and mystery, to an excellent script? As the last student, he should have been taught this mystic style -- which, would have completed the Poison Clan (and complimented his abilities). This would have been a better explaination of him, being able to walk up walls, than saying, that he learned a portion of all the other styles. If, you recall (during his fight-scenes), he only walked up walls, he never displayed any of the other (4) exponent's abilities.
While, it wasn't capitalized here, director Lee Tso-Nam added a Spider character to his film, Challenge Of Death (originally called The Snake, The Dragon, & The Spider). Played by Chang Yi, his display of the style, came complete, with Spider-web cape and (hidden) rope, that shot out for climbing. Even, in this film, the Spider style was said to be (almost) invincible. Here, the Snake stylist, had to join with a Dragon Fist expert, in order to defeat the deadly Spider Fist. Ironically, this film was released the same year, as Shaw Brother's - The 5 Deadly Venoms.
The Lizard
Originally, there was NO Lizard to speak of, in this film. This, leads me to believe, that it's inclusion (in The 5 Deadly Venoms) was an added element, to the new script. The lizard that is pictured in the film (on the wall), is that of a Beaded Lizard -- which contradicts the style used in the film. These lizards (though, poisonous) are virtually, slow-moving creature.
The lizard style, that they had Kuo Chui using, was more of a Gecko type of lizard. Geckos aren't poisonous or known for being vicious fighters; just good climbers. In the film, this was his main attribute (climbing) -- which, didn't suggest that he had great fighting skill. In fact, he was the least threatening (and the nicest), of all the sought-after group. This would have also made him, the weakest member in the group. Other, than the ability to climb, I saw no real reason, to include this lizard in a group of poisonous fighters.
To pit a gecko against any of the other poisonous creatures, would have meant a certain death - for the lizard. The only other gift that Geckos had, was the ability to detach it's tale (when grabbed by it) and grow another one later. This fact, alone, let's us see that, it possesses no real fighting skill -- just an evasive tactic, used to run away from potential predators. This quality (in itself) leaned more towards Cowardice, than anything else. Fierce battle skills, are not one of this lizard's chief attributes.
A New Era
Chang's new group of fighters, would make their entrance to the screen, as stuntmen. This would (also) come with the closure of his own production company and a change in his staff, as most of his actors, wanted to diversify to expand their careers.