This oddity, made during the latter period of Shaw Brother’s production history (with the studio ceasing production in 1987), is a delightful genre mash-up, best described as a serial killer/Kung Fu-horror spectacular. For fans of either genre, it is an absolute delight, if you can stomach the more gruesome set-pieces. 88 Films, once again, have produced a great release complete with beautiful artwork. 

The tone is set early by director Sun-Chung, as lightning and a blood-dripping corpse are presented over the credits. We are introduced to the cocky Lung Shu-Ai (Tony Liu), he is a rich and respected member of the martial world, and has a bitter rivalry with Tan Fu (Kuan Tai Chen). Lun turns to a clearly unhinged but skilful lantern maker, Chun-Fang (Lieh Lo), for help in beating Tan Fu in an upcoming contest. However, Chun-Fang was defeated in battle by Lung, and holds a grudge after being scarred and humbled. So when an insane character wearing a skull mask and furry boots starts kidnapping and killing the women closest to the rivals, it becomes clear that paper isn’t the only ingredient being utilised in Chun-Fang’s prize-winning lanterns. 

With two prolonged scenes of women being flayed by the ‘lantern maker’, the film pushes the limits of the genre. It still features some intricate action sequences, brilliantly choreographed and performed throughout. The disc features interviews with the two leading ladies, Susan Shaw and Linda Chu, and actor Tony Liu (he is certainly a character and is very animated in a long discussion about his career.) We also get the original Mandarin version and a commentary from the guys at Podcast On Fire, which is decent. Human Lanterns is truly a hidden gem, that will create deep discussions well after our hero renounces his extravagant ways. 

HUMAN LANTERNS is out now from 88 Films