| Eric Tsang was back in the director's chair--following the fun, fight filled, yet flawed, THE CHALLENGER--with more or less the same team for this really enjoyable kung fu mystery-comedy, sporting some seriously tight choreo and some laughs along the way.
This movie distinguishes itself in several ways. First off, the story is actually sort of interesting and exciting. You will most likely be racking your brain trying to figure out the true identity of "the spider", when you're not marvelling at the flashy fights or laughing at David Chiang's antics. Because yes--brace yourself--the comedy is actually pretty funny. Chiang and Tsui Siu Keung have great chemistry and timing, choreo-wise as well as comedically. The scene with them trying to get information from a dying man always makes me laugh.
Now, for all the people that have their doubts about David Chiang's screen fighting skills, I urge you to watch this movie (along with THE CHALLENGER). He never looks this good in any of his Shaw flicks, and neither did the lovely Lily Li for that matter. They both truly shine under the guidance of fight choreographers Chik Ngai Hung and Ho Chi Wai. Tsui Siu Keung always brings the heat, so does Philip Ko--DUUUH!! Plus Kwan Yung Moon and Jacky Chen Shao Lung.
Despite a little of the usual undercranking and doubling, the end fight in the treasure chamber is a hall of famer for sure. There are fights aplenty in here, but the final showdown is so damn awesome that it alone is worth watching the movie for.
The movie has excellent production value. Beautiful sets, nice costumes, and some interesting locations that haven't been seen in thousands of other movies. All of these things combined amount to a genuine indie classic that shouldn't be missed by any kung fu fan. |