Movie review - "Face of Fu Manchu" (1965) ***

Crackerjack thriller about the famous doctor who had been in film hibernation for a number of years until revived by Harry Alan Towers (perhaps inspired by the popularity of the Fu Manchu-like Dr No). Towers himself wrote the script and hired Don Sharp to direct - its one of Sharp's best films, fast paced and unpretentious.

Christopher Lee is perfect in the title role, all silky menace. Nigel Smith is a strong Nayland Smith, dogged and intense, and Tsai Chin is terrific as Fu Manchu's daughter. Some strong scenes: the opening execution of Fu Manchu, visiting the town that's been wiped out. Joachim Fuchsberger and Karin Dor are a bit bland in support, the film's story seems to lose momentum at the end when they visit Tibet. Also at times it feels more like a collection of set pieces than a smooth narrative. But it is enormous fun. Followed by four sequels.