Films in Malta [1st July, 1975 - 30th June, 1976]

Abstract

For the past three years or so Kung-fu films had reigned supreme and created an unexpected and sometimes dangerous interest in the martial arts. Karate clubs sprang up like mushrooms and I have my reasons for doubting the intentions of some of the people who were so keen on learning this potentially deadly style of unarmed combat. In the cinema, cycles come and go and the untimely death of the late Bruce Lee contributed towards the decline in popularity of this genre. During the year under review there were many films of this type but the market had become saturated and it was obvious that Kung-fu was on its last legs. Despite their violent content many of these films were given a 'U' certificate. Presumably, children, who up to that time had been barred from such films, were the only ones willing to pay the admission price. [excerpt]