The Next Reel Film Podcast

“Listen, human beings. I’m Princess Elzebub. I’ve conquered the Earth. I’m your new master now.”
Hong Kong's Super-Powered Shaw Brothers Spectacle
The Super Inframan, released by Shaw Brothers Studio in 1975, represents a fascinating fusion of tokusatsu, kung fu, and superhero genres. Directed by Hua Shan, this Hong Kong science fiction action film emerged during a period when Asian cinema was actively experimenting with Western genre influences. The film follows a scientist who transforms a volunteer into a cyborg superhero to battle Princess Dragon Mom and her army of monsters. Join us—Pete Wright and Andy Nelson—as we continue the Golden Jubilee: 1975's Pioneering Visions in Global Cinema series with this month's member bonus episode discussing The Super Inframan.
Monster Mayhem and Creative Chaos
Pete and Andy dive deep into the film's spectacular array of monsters, from the memorable "Boing Boing Boys" with their spring-loaded mace heads to Witch Eye with her laser-shooting hand-eyes. They particularly appreciate the creative costume design despite obvious budget constraints, noting how the film manages to create memorable characters through imaginative practical effects and enthusiastic performances.
Shaw Brothers' Influence and Legacy
The hosts explore how The Super Inframan fits into the larger Shaw Brothers catalog and its influence on later filmmakers like Robert Rodriguez and Quentin Tarantino, among others. They discuss how the studio's willingness to experiment with genre combinations helped pave the way for future martial arts and action cinema.
Key Discussion Points:
  • The film's ambitious 88-minute runtime packed with non-stop action
  • Danny Lee's performance as Rayma/Inframan and his transformation sequences
  • Terry Liu's memorable portrayal of Princess Dragon Mom
  • The creative but clearly budget-conscious special effects
  • The influence of Japanese tokusatsu on Hong Kong cinema
  • Geographic inconsistencies in the story that amused both hosts
  • The extensive use of practical effects and wire work
  • How the film balances martial arts action with science fiction elements
Final Thoughts
While Pete and Andy disagree on the exact star rating the film deserves, they both emphasize how thoroughly entertaining The Super Inframan remains, particularly in its commitment to spectacle and imagination over narrative coherence. They note how the film's influence can be seen in everything from Power Rangers to modern superhero films. We have a great time talking about it, so check it out then tune in. The Next Reel—when the movie ends, our conversation begins!
🎬 Watch & Discover
Want More?
This is a member bonus episode! While we'd love your support, you'll love what membership brings: monthly bonus episodes like this one, ad-free listening, early releases, exclusive Discord channels, and voting rights on future member movies. It truly pays to be a member.
Ready to join? Visit TruStory FM to learn more about supporting The Next Reel Film Podcast through your own membership.

Creators and Guests

Host
Andy Nelson
With over 25 years of experience in film, television, and commercial production, Andy has cultivated an enduring passion for storytelling in all its forms. His enthusiasm for the craft began in his youth when he and his friends started making their own movies in grade school. After studying film at the University of Colorado Boulder, Andy wrote, directed, and produced several short films while also producing indie features like Netherbeast Incorporated and Ambush at Dark Canyon. Andy has been on the production team for award-winning documentaries such as The Imposter and The Joe Show, as well as TV shows like Investigation Discovery’s Deadly Dentists and Nat Geo’s Inside the Hunt for the Boston Bombers. Over a decade ago, he started podcasting with Pete and immediately embraced the medium. Now, as a partner at TruStory FM, Andy looks forward to more storytelling through their wide variety of shows. Throughout his career, Andy has passed on his knowledge by teaching young minds the crafts of screenwriting, producing, editing, and podcasting. Outside of work, Andy is a family man who enjoys a good martini, a cold beer, a nice cup o’ joe. And always, of course, a great movie.
Host
Pete Wright
#Movies, #ADHD, & #Podcasting • Co-founder @trustory.fm🎥 The Next Reel Family of #Film Podcasts @thenextreel.com🎙️ Taking Control: The ADHD Podcast @takecontroladhd.com📖 Co-author of Unapologetically ADHD • https://unapologeticallyadhdbook.com

What is The Next Reel Film Podcast?

A show about movies and how they connect.
We love movies. We’ve been talking about them, one movie a week, since 2011. It’s a lot of movies, that’s true, but we’re passionate about origins and performance, directors and actors, themes and genres, and so much more. So join the community, and let’s hear about your favorite movies, too.
When the movie ends, our conversation begins.