Tales of Larceny (1973)
A sharp Hong Kong comedy from Shaw Brothers, set amid the scams and social games of the corrupt Chinese Warlord era.
Tales of Larceny - Movie Information
- Original Title: 牛鬼蛇神
- Release Year: 1973
- Directed by: Cheng Kang, Li Han-Hsiang
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Comedy
- Runtime: 1h 17m
- Original Language: Chinese
- Spoken Languages: Mandarin
- Release Date (Theatrical): January 1, 1973 (Hong Kong)
- Alternative Titles: Ngow gwai se sun (HK)
- Production Companies: Shaw Brothers
- Production Countries: Hong Kong
Tales of Larceny - Plot
In "The Scholar and The Soldier", Major Fang is obsessed with Yu Zhen by chance, knowing that she is the daughter of scholar Xu, he decided to enter their house in disguise with his page, and however, Yu Zhen's cousin comes back for the pre-arranged marriage at the same time. Li Han-hsiang both scripted and helmed "Tales of Larceny" about the scams cons worked and the games people played during the corrupt Chinese Warlord era, featuring a cast filled with the best of Shaw's exceptional character actors.
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Tales of Larceny - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Cheng Kang
- Li Han-Hsiang
Main Cast
- Cheng Kang
- Chang Ti
- Liu Wu-Chi
- Dean Shek Tin
- Wei Ping-Ao
- Li Ching
- Wang Lai
- Fang Mian
- Teresa Ha Ping
- Ouyang Sha-Fei
Tales of Larceny - FAQs
What is Tales of Larceny about?
Tales of Larceny is a Hong Kong comedy set during the corrupt Chinese Warlord era. It follows the scams, cons, and social games of the period, with one segment centering on Major Fang, who disguises himself to pursue a scholar's daughter — only to find her cousin has arrived for a pre-arranged marriage.
Who directed Tales of Larceny?
Tales of Larceny was co-directed by Cheng Kang and Li Han-Hsiang, two of Shaw Brothers' most accomplished filmmakers. Li Han-Hsiang also wrote the screenplay, drawing on his deep knowledge of Chinese historical settings and comedic storytelling.
Who are the main actors in Tales of Larceny?
The film features a rich ensemble of Shaw Brothers' finest character actors, including Cheng Kang, Chang Ti, Liu Wu-Chi, Dean Shek Tin, Wei Ping-Ao, Li Ching, Wang Lai, Fang Mian, Teresa Ha Ping, and Ouyang Sha-Fei — a lineup that showcases the studio's exceptional depth of talent.
Is Tales of Larceny based on a true story?
Tales of Larceny isn't based on a single true story, but it's firmly rooted in the historical reality of China's Warlord era — a period rife with corruption, social deception, and opportunism. Li Han-Hsiang used this backdrop to craft comedic tales that reflect genuine social dynamics of the time.
What is the runtime of Tales of Larceny?
Tales of Larceny runs for 77 minutes — a tight, brisk runtime that suits its anthology-style comedic format. At just over an hour, it moves quickly through its sketches without overstaying its welcome.
What films are similar to Tales of Larceny?
If you enjoyed Tales of Larceny, you might also like Flirting Scholar (1993), I Am Not Madame Bovary (2016), Lost on Journey (2010), and Happy Times (2000) — all comedies that share a similar flair for wit, social satire, or Chinese cultural settings.
Was Tales of Larceny a Shaw Brothers production?
Yes, Tales of Larceny was produced by Shaw Brothers, the legendary Hong Kong studio behind hundreds of classic films. The production showcases the studio's hallmark polish and its remarkable roster of character actors, many of whom appear together here in fine comedic form.
How was Tales of Larceny received by audiences?
Tales of Larceny is regarded as a charming example of Shaw Brothers' comedic output from the early 1970s. Li Han-Hsiang's sharp scriptwriting and the stellar ensemble cast make it a fondly remembered entry in Hong Kong cinema's golden age, appreciated for its wit and period authenticity.
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