Though not wholly out of character with similar fare out of Hong Kong, there are definite rough edges in the construction compared to contemporary works from elsewhere. There's a significant directness and curtness in many aspects, including the direction, editing, general pacing of scenes, music cues, and occasional infusion of tense moments outside of the big beats. By all means, one can discern the kinship this shares with countless other horror flicks - discrete events early on, followed by plot development as the events are investigated, culminating in more wicked doings in the third act. Given cultural differences that may not always be understood (and which may not be explained for outside viewers), possibly different sensibilities in some measure about cinema, and definitely those rough edges, the resulting picture may not come off as well. However much one may nitpick, though, by and large I think 'Centipede horror' is well made and enjoyable, with the most significant differences from more familiar flicks of the late 70s or early 80s being only in how Chinese culture and mysticism is centered over western notions thereof. For my part, I really like it!
I'm pleasantly surprised by just how strong the screenplay is. The scene writing may vary a little in its strength, with some moments meeting with greater success than others, but much more than not it is quite suitable in propelling the narrative. Moreover, like that narrative, scenes at their best are rich with excellent flavor, making for a compelling viewing experience as black magic and death bring the horror element to bear. It's clear that Amy Chan Suet-Ming poured a lot of care and thought into the script, for in addition to major backstory the latter half is filled with substantial detail about the spells and rituals on hand. It speaks well to director Keith Li and all others involved that the last third or so is flush with especial intensity and energy to make the proceedings all the more vibrant, with the genre styling being ever more prominent. The cast readily embrace that dark but fun tenor, and even those in smaller supporting parts are a minor joy in and of themselves. Naturally those with the most screen time particularly stand out, and Michael Miu is a steady anchor as protagonist Pak Wai-Lun; Tien-Lang Li's role as Yeuk-Chee ultimately offers an opportunity for her to let loose a little more, and she certainly makes the most of it. Not to be outdone, Hussein Abu Hassan sure seems to be throwing himself into the angry gesturing and demeanor of the unnamed antagonist.
Those operating behind the scenes also turned in fantastic work to help bring this to life. Though relatively few compared to some other titles, the practical effects and special makeup that present here are terrific, ably realizing the sorcery and maladies that are at play here. I don't know where the production snagged all the countless centipedes that we see at various points (the climax not least), but there's something to be said for the effort to secure real insects. To that end, while Yip Lee's cinematography is splendid generally, giving us eyefuls of everything there is to see herein, the tight focus on the centipedes is an especially nice touch, letting us get a good look at these beautiful but sometimes dangerous and misunderstood creatures. The costume design, hair, and makeup are fetching - and of all things, the art direction also really makes an impression in 'Centipede horror.' It's not so spectacular, perhaps, as what we're familiar with in other features of the time out of Hong Kong, like the Shaw Brothers' period kung fu pieces, yet there's considerable imagination reflected in the sets that adds to the atmosphere the movie carries. And speaking of that atmosphere, the music at its best is superb, a bounty of dramatic themes that reflect and enhance the grim tidings. Granted, there are also some curiosities in the music, including some themes that are ill-fitting, and some that blatantly lift from popular songs and rearrange the chords; the original film version of David Bowie's "Cat people (Putting out fire)" is the most obvious example. And still the music is much better than not, another facet of this that's so commendable.
I'm really very pleased with just how good this is. I had mixed expectations, perhaps, but I was solidly entertained throughout, and it's readily apparent to me how much skill and intelligence went into the picture in every capacity. Overall it may not be anything truly special, but the last act especially should handily satisfy one's horror cravings, and even in a case where the acting, direction, and craftsmanship are highly admirable, the writing leaps out as being a specific highlight. It won't appeal to everyone just as a matter of personal preference, and it goes without saying that anyone with a phobia of "creepy crawlies" should walk away altogether. I had a really good time watching 'Centipede horror,' though, and as far as I'm concerned I'm happy to recommend it for just about anyone who appreciates the genre.
I'm pleasantly surprised by just how strong the screenplay is. The scene writing may vary a little in its strength, with some moments meeting with greater success than others, but much more than not it is quite suitable in propelling the narrative. Moreover, like that narrative, scenes at their best are rich with excellent flavor, making for a compelling viewing experience as black magic and death bring the horror element to bear. It's clear that Amy Chan Suet-Ming poured a lot of care and thought into the script, for in addition to major backstory the latter half is filled with substantial detail about the spells and rituals on hand. It speaks well to director Keith Li and all others involved that the last third or so is flush with especial intensity and energy to make the proceedings all the more vibrant, with the genre styling being ever more prominent. The cast readily embrace that dark but fun tenor, and even those in smaller supporting parts are a minor joy in and of themselves. Naturally those with the most screen time particularly stand out, and Michael Miu is a steady anchor as protagonist Pak Wai-Lun; Tien-Lang Li's role as Yeuk-Chee ultimately offers an opportunity for her to let loose a little more, and she certainly makes the most of it. Not to be outdone, Hussein Abu Hassan sure seems to be throwing himself into the angry gesturing and demeanor of the unnamed antagonist.
Those operating behind the scenes also turned in fantastic work to help bring this to life. Though relatively few compared to some other titles, the practical effects and special makeup that present here are terrific, ably realizing the sorcery and maladies that are at play here. I don't know where the production snagged all the countless centipedes that we see at various points (the climax not least), but there's something to be said for the effort to secure real insects. To that end, while Yip Lee's cinematography is splendid generally, giving us eyefuls of everything there is to see herein, the tight focus on the centipedes is an especially nice touch, letting us get a good look at these beautiful but sometimes dangerous and misunderstood creatures. The costume design, hair, and makeup are fetching - and of all things, the art direction also really makes an impression in 'Centipede horror.' It's not so spectacular, perhaps, as what we're familiar with in other features of the time out of Hong Kong, like the Shaw Brothers' period kung fu pieces, yet there's considerable imagination reflected in the sets that adds to the atmosphere the movie carries. And speaking of that atmosphere, the music at its best is superb, a bounty of dramatic themes that reflect and enhance the grim tidings. Granted, there are also some curiosities in the music, including some themes that are ill-fitting, and some that blatantly lift from popular songs and rearrange the chords; the original film version of David Bowie's "Cat people (Putting out fire)" is the most obvious example. And still the music is much better than not, another facet of this that's so commendable.
I'm really very pleased with just how good this is. I had mixed expectations, perhaps, but I was solidly entertained throughout, and it's readily apparent to me how much skill and intelligence went into the picture in every capacity. Overall it may not be anything truly special, but the last act especially should handily satisfy one's horror cravings, and even in a case where the acting, direction, and craftsmanship are highly admirable, the writing leaps out as being a specific highlight. It won't appeal to everyone just as a matter of personal preference, and it goes without saying that anyone with a phobia of "creepy crawlies" should walk away altogether. I had a really good time watching 'Centipede horror,' though, and as far as I'm concerned I'm happy to recommend it for just about anyone who appreciates the genre.