The Spearman of Death A.K.A. The Flag of Iron • 鐵旗門 (1980)

The Spearman of Death (1980), better known internationally as The Flag of Iron, is one of director Chang Cheh's most admired Shaw Brothers productions. Starring Phillip Kwok, Lu Feng, Wong Lik, Chiang Sheng, Lung Tien-Hsiang, and Chui Tai Ping, the film combines brotherhood, betrayal, and exceptional martial arts choreography in a story that has remained a favorite among Venom Mob fans for decades. Available from ClassicKungFuMovies.com for collectors who appreciate authentic Hong Kong martial arts cinema on physical media.

STORY OVERVIEW

The respected Iron Flag Clan has earned a reputation for honor and loyalty, but a trusted insider secretly plots its destruction. To wipe out every obstacle, he hires the feared Ten Killers of the Underworld, ruthless assassins whose deadly skills leave the once-powerful brotherhood in ruins.

One loyal spearman survives the massacre and refuses to let the clan's legacy die. Joined by trusted allies, he follows a trail of deception, uncovering hidden conspiracies and confronting one deadly opponent after another. Every victory brings him closer to the truth, but also closer to the mastermind responsible for the clan's downfall.

MARTIAL ARTS HIGHLIGHTS

The Spearman of Death is remembered for its outstanding weapons choreography, particularly the creative use of the spear and traditional polearms. Chang Cheh stages a series of fast-moving duels that showcase precision, timing, and teamwork, while the Venom Mob performers bring their athletic abilities to every confrontation. The film's inventive fight design has made it one of the most respected weapons-based martial arts films produced by Shaw Brothers Studio.

WHY COLLECTORS PICK IT

Known worldwide as The Flag of Iron, this film remains one of the defining collaborations between Chang Cheh and the Venom Mob. Its combination of mystery, revenge, memorable villains, and spectacular spear techniques gives it a style unlike many other Shaw Brothers productions. The mystery surrounding the traitor's identity keeps the story engaging while the martial arts action rewards repeat viewings, making it a title many collectors consider essential.

HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Released during the peak of Chang Cheh's partnership with the Venom Mob, The Spearman of Death demonstrated that Shaw Brothers martial arts films could successfully combine mystery, suspense, and detective-style storytelling with elaborate kung fu choreography. The film's emphasis on traditional Chinese weapons, especially the spear, helped distinguish it from many revenge films of the period and contributed to its lasting reputation among fans of classic Hong Kong cinema.

• Verified AKAs:
  • The Spearman of Death – English home video title
  • The Flag of Iron – International English title
  • Iron Flag – Alternate English title
  • 鐵旗門 – Original Traditional Chinese title
  • 铁旗门 – Simplified Chinese title
  • Tiě Qí Mén – Mandarin pinyin
  • Tit Kei Mun – Cantonese romanization
• Director: Chang Cheh
• Producer: Run Run Shaw
• Screenplay: Chang Cheh, Ni Kuang
• Action Director: Chang Cheh
• Cinematography: Cho Wai-Kei
• Editor: Chiang Hsing-Lung
• Studio: Shaw Brothers Studio
• Starring: Phillip Kwok, Lu Feng, Wong Lik, Chiang Sheng, Lung Tien-Hsiang, Chui Tai Ping
• Format: DVD
• Language: English (Dolby Digital 2.0 Stereo Dual Mono)
• Subtitles: None
• Running Time: 108 Minutes
• Region: All Regions
• Country: Hong Kong
• Release Year: 1980

Carefully researched and prepared for collectors of classic martial arts cinema by ClassicKungFuMovies.com.