EP 156: "FIGHT DIRTY!" PART 2: "THE SWORD AND THE CLAW" (1975)

Last week, we talked Jackie Chan, so it's only natural that this week we talk, uhh... Turkey? Yes, we're tackling our first TURKISH film, THE SWORD AND THE CLAW (1975)! Also known as both THE LIONMAN and KILIC ASLAN, this oddball feature is part TARZAN, part ROBIN HOOD, and part TURKISH STAR WARS (it even shares star Cüneyt Arkin!) Get ready to be dazzled by metal claws and traitorous maidens in this rollicking adventure romp!

"MAKE US CLAWS!" on this week's episode of CULT and CLASSIC Films Podcast! Listen wherever you get your podcasts and at https://cultandclassicfilms.com/!

Last Week: "RUMBLE IN THE BRONX" (1995)

Host: NATE WYCKOFF

Panelists: TAD MASTROIANNI, MANDY LONGLEY, & CORINNE PORTER

More on THE SWORD AND THE CLAW (1975):

"The Sword and the Claw" is a Turkish martial arts film released in 1975. Set in a fictional medieval era, the story revolves around a righteous lord who is betrayed and assassinated by a treacherous minister named Kumandan Antuan. Before his death, the dying lord manages to pass on his infant son, Aslan, to a follower who loses him in the forest while fleeing the traitorous Antuan.

Raised by lions, the king’s son learns to rip off people’s faces with his “man-claws,” and eventually is found by the resistance fighting against Antuan. What’s more, it turns out Antuan’s son is actually Aslan’s half-brother! What a coincidence!

As the warring factions ramp up to full scale battle, the movie doubles-down on intense fight sequences and scratches that will definitely leave marks. Ultimately, good triumphs—OR DOES IT? (It does.)

"The Sword and the Claw" is known for its action-packed fight scenes, exaggerated stunts, and over-the-top violence. It reflects the martial arts cinema style of the 1970s, combining traditional Turkish elements with influences from Hong Kong action films. A definite cult classic!