Tiger Claws Trilogy Blu-ray Movie

Rating summary

Movie		3.5
Video		4.5
Audio		4.5
Extras		4.5
Overall		4.5

Tiger Claws Trilogy Blu-ray Movie Review

Reviewed by Brian Orndorf December 11, 2021

Giving fans of B-movies from the 1990s a thrill, Vinegar Syndrome collects all three “Tiger Claws” films in one package, offering viewers a chance to revisit or possibly discover these martial art actioners from producer Jalal Merhi.

Click here for a review of Tiger Claws

Click here for a review of Tiger Claws II

Click here for a review of Tiger Claws III

Tiger Claws Trilogy Blu-ray Movie, Video Quality 

See above for reviews.

Tiger Claws Trilogy Blu-ray Movie, Audio Quality 

See above for reviews.

Tiger Claws Trilogy Blu-ray Movie, Special Features and Extras 

Tiger Claws

• Commentary features producer/actor Jalal Merhi.

Tiger Claws II

• Commentary features producer/actor Jalal Merhi.

Tiger Claws III

• Commentary features producer/actor Jalal Merhi.

• "Sharpening the Claws" (27:16, HD) is a dual interview with producer/actor Jalal Merhi and actress Cynthia Rothrock. Merhi discusses production origins on "Tiger Claws," forming an idea for the movie to take to Cannes, working to meet people capable of financing the effort. Rothrock emerged from her time in Hong Kong looking for work, getting to know Merhi, with the both of them trained martial artists. With money in place, "Tiger Claws" began shooting in Toronto, and Merhi discusses the shaping of the screenplay and the use of natural fight skills, also highlighting his relationship with co-star Bolo Yeung. Director Kelly Makin is assessed, and Rothrock recalls the lessons learned on the endeavor, helping her to prepare for the sequel.

• "Martial Art Porn" (17:58, HD) returns to Rothrock and Merhi to explore the making of "Tiger Claws II." Clearing up many rights issues, Merhi was finally able to produce a sequel, and one that featured stronger fight choreography, giving Rothrock a bit more to do, especially with weapons. Working to improve her acting, Rothrock attended classes at the Second City to sharpen her skills, learning to interact with others. Merhi closes with memories of a changing film market in the 1990s, and clarifies exactly why the conclusion of "Tiger Claws II" is so mangled, as Bolo Yeung walked off the shoot after completing 75% of his work.

• "Mystical Claws" (18:49, HD) examines the making of "Tiger Claws III" with Merhi and Rothrock. Without Bolo Yeung, Merhi was forced to create a new character, finding a game actor in Carter Wong. As for Rothrock's drastically reduced appearance in the movie, the actress was pregnant, only committing to a few scenes, during which she suffered tremendous morning sickness. Merhi only seems somewhat happy with the finished film, lamenting the loss of Rothrock, but he had plans for another sequel, which remain in play for a possible resurrection of the brand name.

• And Video Trailers for "Tiger Claws" (2:07, SD), "Tiger Claws II" (2:07, SD), and "Tiger Claws III" (2:45, SD) are included.

Tiger Claws Trilogy Blu-ray Movie, Overall Score and Recommendation 

Vinegar Syndrome offers wonderful A/V achievements for the "Tiger Claws" trilogy, and while supplements aren't packed, what's here is illuminating, helping to answer many questions about the series as it worked its way from action to superhero fantasy, presenting plenty of physical power along the way.