Film Review: Slaughter in San Francisco (Yellow Face Tiger) 黄面老虎 (1974) - Hong Kong
Rating: 6/10
2025 Review Count - 39
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Reviewed by Andrew Chan (Film Critics Circle of Australia)
“Yellow Faced Tiger”, also known as “Slaughter in San Francisco”, is an unique 1974 martial arts action international film that set against the backdrop of a corrupt San Francisco underworld. Directed by Lo Wei, this B-movie international film weaves a narrative of power, betrayal, and redemption within the bustling streets of the city.
Riding from the fame of Bruce Lee - Chuck Norris embodies the role of a formidable drug kingpin who wields control over San Francisco, dominating all in his path, including the police force. However, his reign faces a formidable challenge when a young police officer, portrayed with conviction by Don Wong Tao, dares to confront his authority, setting the stage for a gripping showdown between good and evil.
The film unfolds with a gritty downtown realism, showcasing the raw intensity of martial arts combat as Officer Wong and his partner, played by Robert Jones, navigate a treacherous world plagued by violence and deception. The narrative takes a poignant turn as Wong is unjustly ousted from the force and imprisoned, only to emerge with a burning desire for justice and retribution. Take note of a young and pretty Sylvia Chang who simply chews scenery in a wild and rebellious role.
As the plot thickens, Wong's quest for truth leads him down a dangerous path lined with treachery and deceit. Facing off against a web of corruption orchestrated by Captain Newman, in B-movie format portrayed by Dan Ivan, Wong's journey becomes a pulse-pounding race against time to unravel the sinister machinations of the criminal underworld.
The climactic confrontation between Wong and Chuck Slaughter is a tour de force of martial arts prowess, culminating in a battle of over the top titanic proportions that leaves viewers somewhat entertained. Norris delivers a cartoony performance yet B-movie cheesy, embodying the ruthless charisma of his character with a steely resolve that is both cheesy and laughable.
While “Slaughter in San Francisco” offers a different narrative and some thrilling action sequences, the film is not without its flaws. The pacing at times feels uneven, and certain plot points may leave audiences wanting for more depth and nuance in character development. (Neo, 2025)
Watched (Golden Harvest Vol 1 - Shining Stars Blu Ray Box Set by Shout Factory) along with the wonderful audio commentary by the legendary Frank Djeng.
