Before "Yes, Madam" (1985), "In The Line of Duty" (1986) and "Kill Bill" (2003), one of the best examples of the "Girls 'N Guns" genre movies was the little known action film "Deadly Angels" (AKA Bod Squad). This Shaw Brother's produced film at first glance seems to lend itself out to be a direct ripoff of the American TV show "Charlie's Angels". But unlike those angels, this trio of beautiful detectives were veritable "wild cats" who would savagely punch, kick and shoot their way out of any situation. The composition of the team was quite unique for the time and represented a diverse Asian mix (a HK Police Woman, A Japanese Undercover Cop and a Korean Security Agent). What also made these gals unique from their American counterparts were their skills. Not only were they experts with both conventional and "James Bond" inspired exotic weaponry (mini Crossbows, exploding earrings, spiked ball and chains) but these ladies were each a master at some different Martial Art skill. The gritty look and feel of the movie reminds me of Toei Studio's similar "Sister Street Fighter" (Onna Hissatsu Ken) movies (1973-1975) and the Japanese cult TV show "Playgirl" (1969) which also told the story of a group of capable female private investigators. The alluring Evelyn Kraft also makes an appearance as the leader of this group of girls, although we don't get to see very much of her in action. This was one of my favorite films as a kid and it is a shame that this film has not yet made it out on DVD. One can only hope that when it does, that this film will attract new fans and get the attention it so richly deserves.
