The Last Blood (1991) [88 Films Blu-ray review]

88 Films has given The Last Blood its HD debut with a restored Blu-ray release. The 4K scan delivers the original theatrical version in vivid image quality, although the source material shows some wear. However, American fans of Hong Kong action will be confused. Was it a Hard Boiled sequel? Hell, what is the actual name of the movie and when was it actually released? Having taken the better part of 2 years to make its way to the UK and US, we hope that the 88 Films release spells things out for fans.

Early 90s Hong Kong Action in play

The 1991 Hong Kong action film The Last Blood marked a bold and controversial entry into the heroic bloodshed genre pioneered by director John Woo. Helmed by prolific director Wong Jing, The Last Blood pushed boundaries with its gritty violence and nihilistic tone.

Centering on Japanese terrorists targeting a Lama, the film stars action icons Bryan Leung and Alan Tam as local police, with a supporting cast of hard-boiled actors like Eric Tsang. Visual director and cinematography by Peter Ngor and Peter Pau create stylish gun battles and atmospheric tension.

The Last Blood wastes no time diving into the action, opening with a nearly 10-minute shootout sequence that sets the ruthless tone. This mass carnage kicks off a string of increasingly bloody confrontations between the rival forces. Hell, the idea of blood donation furthers a lot of the action as people get super concerned about who will get blood first.

The body count piles up as the story delves into themes of honor, vengeance, brotherhood amongst thieves, and the vicious cycle of violence. Wong Jing leaves no taboo unexplored, with scenes featuring children being caught in crossfire during urban crime skirmishes.

How did it do at the Box Office?

The film was a moderate box office success upon its release, grossing over $20 million worldwide. However, its impact on the crime thriller genre was much greater than its box office takings would suggest. The Last Blood was an early 90s Hong Kong action film to use a slightly different gritty and realistic style, rather than the more fantastical approach of previous films. This approach, combined with the film’s intense action sequences and strong performances, made it a hit with fans of the genre.

The film’s success can also be attributed to its tense atmosphere and gripping plot. The film’s use of suspense and tension creates a sense of unease that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats. The film’s themes of revenge and redemption also resonated with audiences, making it a film that’s as much about the characters as it is about the action.

Is The Last Blood still seen as Hard Boiled II?

In recent years, The Last Blood has experienced a resurgence in popularity, particularly among fans of the martial arts genre. The film’s gritty and realistic style, combined with its intense action sequences, have made it a favorite among fans of hard-hitting Hong Kong crime films. The film’s themes of revenge and redemption also continue to resonate with audiences, making it a film that’s as relevant today as it was when it was first released.

The film’s impact on the action genre can also be seen in the work of modern filmmakers. Many modern films such as The Raid, have taken inspiration from The Last Blood’s gritty and realistic style. The film’s use of suspense and tension has also influenced a new generation of filmmakers, who have used it in their own films.

For those wondering about the Hard Boiled II connection, the title was changed to capitalize on the recent successes that Woo films were having in the English speaking world. Many British tourists to Hong Kong in the 90s were experiencing the action wave as it happeneded and carrying it back to their homeland and American compatriots.

Stellar legacy

While shocking in its heyday, The Last Blood had a strong influence on subsequent crime thrillers and heroic bloodshed films. Its gritty approach helped inspire titles like The Big Heat, Full Contact, the Young and Dangerous series and more.

The film also cemented Wong Jing’s reputation as an unflinching storyteller. His bold directorial style carries forward in later works like God of Gamblers, City Hunter, and Kung Fu Mahjong.

Revisiting The Last Blood today, its violence still packs a gut punch. But the technical artistry is apparent, with kinetic gunplay choreography that lays groundwork for directors like John Woo to build upon. Fans of gritty crime stories will appreciate this brutal and bold early entry in the heroic bloodshed canon.

Why were people blown away by its violence?

The Last Blood made waves for its unflinching depictions of violence. Shootouts and murders are portrayed in graphic detail, with arterial blood splatter spraying repeatedly. Bodies pile up rapidly as the Kill Bill-esque battles intensify.

This was extreme even for Hong Kong action cinema of the time. While John Woo’s A Better Tomorrow series and other heroic bloodshed films contained high body counts, the violence was usually stylized and heroic. Wong Jing’s approach to carnage in The Last Blood was more visceral and nihilistic.

The film’s seeming glorification of international and gang warfare added additional controversy. Hong Kong’s draconian censorship board demanded edits to tone down certain scenes, although the cut version still contained copious brutality.

Let’s talk about that Blu-ray

In terms of special features, the 88 Films Blu-ray release of The Last Blood includes a new commentary, trailers and a still gallery The commentary provide insight into the film’s production, while the trailers are a great way to see how the film was presented. The release also includes a folded poster inside of the case.

Overall, the 88 Films Blu-ray release of The Last Blood is a must-have for fans of the Hong Kong crime genre. The film’s intense action sequences, gripping plot, and strong performances make it a classic of the genre, and the Blu-ray release provides a level of audio visual quality and special features that make it a worthwhile purchase. Whether you’re a fan of the film or just looking for a great movie, The Last Blood is a great choice.

The last word on The Last Blood

The Last Blood is a gritty and intense thriller that continues to hold up well today. The film’s tense atmosphere, gripping plot, and strong performances make it a must-see for fans of the genre. The recently released Blu-ray from 88 Films is a great way to experience the film, with its restored picture and audio and special features. Whether you’re a fan of the film or just looking for a great movie, The Last Blood is a great choice.

The Last Blood is now available on Blu-ray from 88 Films