The Devil's Skin

Synopsis

The Devil's Skin (鬼皮), starring Ingrid Hu Yin-Yin, is a 1970 Hong Kong horror-thriller that explores themes of supernatural vengeance and dark folklore. Set against a backdrop infused with eerie mysticism, the film follows a young woman entangled in a chilling encounter with a cursed entity linked to an ancient, malevolent skin. As secrets unravel, she must confront both external dangers and internal fears in a gripping narrative blending suspense, traditional horror elements, and psychological drama. The film is noted for its atmospheric storytelling and intense performances, making it a distinctive entry in the early wave of Asian horror cinema.

Cast

• 

  Ingrid Hu Yin-Yin

  Fox Spirit

• Mang Lee

  Vampire / Widow

• Tou Sun

  Master Yang

• 

  Kong San

• Yao Chung

  Squire Yang

• 

  Wong Sam

  Taoist Exorcist

Reviews

The Devil's Skin has received a mixed range of reviews from both critics and audiences over the years. On IMDb, the film holds a modest rating around 6.2/10, reflecting a niche appreciation primarily from fans of classic Asian horror. Reviewers often praise Ingrid Hu Yin-Yin's compelling performance, which adds depth to the otherwise straightforward storyline. Critics from specialized horror blogs and retrospectives appreciate the film's atmospheric direction and effective use of traditional folklore elements, noting its contribution to the genre during a period when Asian horror was gaining internazionale recognition. However, some modern viewers and reviewers express critiques concerning pacing and dated special effects, which they feel may not resonate with contemporary audiences who expect more polished production values. Rotten Tomatoes does not have an official score for The Devil's Skin due to its age and limited international release, but fan excerpts and horror aficionados cite it as an important cult classic with a haunting mood. Overall, it stands as a historically significant film that appeals most to genre enthusiasts and those interested in vintage Asian horror cinema.