The Magnificent Ruffians

Synopsis

The Magnificent Ruffians (1979), originally titled 賣命小子, is a classic Taiwanese martial arts film featuring Lu Feng, one of the iconic members of the Venom Mob. Set in a chaotic era where rival kung fu schools clash for dominance, the story revolves around a group of rugged fighters who find themselves reluctantly teaming up to confront a common enemy threatening their way of life. Known for its exhilarating fight choreography and gritty, action-packed sequences, the film combines intense martial arts brilliance with themes of loyalty, honor, and camaraderie. It's a quintessential example of 1970s martial arts cinema that delivers both excitement and a touch of dramatic storytelling.

Cast

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  Lu Feng

  Yuan Ying Fei

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  Lo Meng

  Guan Yun

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  Phillip Kwok

  Yang Zhui Feng

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  Annie Liu On-Lai

  Guan San

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  Wong Lik

  Zeng Qiao

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  Chiang Sheng

  He Fei

Reviews

The Magnificent Ruffians holds a respectable reputation among martial arts enthusiasts, largely due to its dynamic fight scenes and the charisma of its lead actors, including Lu Feng. On IMDb, the film garners a moderate 6.5/10 rating, reflecting a solid appeal to genre fans but mixed reviews from general audiences. Critics appreciate the film for its raw energy and innovative choreography, which stood out during its release. However, some reviewers note that the plot can feel somewhat formulaic and predictable, typical of many martial arts films of that era. Rotten Tomatoes does not provide a rating for this film, which is common for martial arts movies from the 1970s, but forums and community reviews often praise its action sequences and nostalgic value. Metacritic also lacks an official score, indicative of the film's niche status. Overall, while it may not resonate with viewers unfamiliar with or uninterested in traditional kung fu movies, fans tend to regard The Magnificent Ruffians as a must-watch for its captivating combat scenes and authentic period atmosphere.