Ngai Hong's script lacks great characterdepth and subtext (although the theme of Chen's decisionmaking for others becomes an interesting point) but director Kuei Chih-Hung (The Bamboo House Of Dolls) makes it all up by providing high atmospherics. It's surely more of a simple revenge story, one definitely inspired by 1971's Willard, but the stylish cinematography by Yu Chi turns The Killer Snakes into an immersing and even unnerving ride. Despite being set among the lower class, in a decayed urban Hong Kong, the professionalism is suitably in tune with the content. The filmmakers even go to the brave lengths of not relying on much source light, and letting contours and shadows do the work within a beautifully composed Shawscope frame.

At times threatening to be a bit goofy, in particular during the snake attacks, this 1974 Shaw Brother's production, nowadays also rated Cat III for very valid reasons, doesn't offer happy solutions and a life affirming sentiment. Its impact and disturbing nature can still be felt today but whether you're the viewer who's willing to go down that route and examine film merits, I can't say. I can however say that animal lovers should really stay away as the various killings are most certainly not special effects.