When a master swordsman observes how his own blade is destined to bring misery and bloodshed to all who come in contact with it, he decides to fully exclude himself from the pressures of the martial world. His reputation, though, will not allow that great warrior to rest and soon an honourable young swordsman (Cheng) looks to challenge the legendary fighter. However, this new challenger has his own battles to face as the partner (Keung) of his old girlfriend decides to erase him from the scene. Alongside this evil objective is his twin desire to own the fabled sword and take over the rulership of the martial world. With this in mind, he sends out his vicious minnion (Ko) to help complete both tasks. The prophetic tragedy that had surrounded the sword continues to effect all three of these very different men and especially the women they love.

'The Sword' is a stylish swordplay film with an ominous air of fatalism filling the atmosphere. From the opening pre-credit prophecies, the viewer is well aware that the characters are certain to face trauma throughtout the storyline. By the time the final credits roll, every single character has been touched by tragedy - some more serious than others. During a period where comedy punctuated every kung-fu flick of the time, director Patrick Tam creates a very sombre martial arts drama and never allows the tension to drop. With a cast that ranges from television star and cinematic newcomer Adam Cheng to genre favourites Tsui Siu Keung and Eddie Ko, 'The Sword' is packed with quality. Cheng is excellent as the naive hero whose actions have powerful consequences while veteran actor Tien Feng is assured as the weary master. The combination of director and cast manages to conjure up a dramatic success that also pleases with its action choreography. The various sword duels are designed in such a way that they take in influences from swordplay classics such as 'One Armed Swordsman' all the way to Japanese Chambara masterpieces. All of these are superbly delivered. The visual style that Patrick Tam designs is another indication that this is a more mature action film than may be expected. All things considered, 'The Sword' is a highly recommended new-wave effort that pleases in every department.

PICTURE: Although this DVD has the usual WA echo problems on the audio, the picture quality is excellent. A few speckles are present, but the colours are very strong and the different settings look impressive throughout. Very good transfer.

SOUND: 5.1 Mandarin with English/Traditional Chinese subtitles (removable).

TRAILERS: None.

EXTRAS: None.

REVIEW:
A superior period swordplay that has unusually high production standards and a tightly woven story. The cinematography very noticeably borrows from Japanese and classical American film. The widescreen format is used to good effect with dramatic perspective and contrast that lends texture to the drama.

Unlike many Hong Kong swordplay films, the story is straight forward and effectively balances action with character development. The tale is a classic blend of tragic lost love and disenchantment as each of the main characters experience some form of hardship all associated with the Chi Wu sword. The protagonist, Li Mak-jan finds becoming the greatest swordsman at another's expense is not only unfulfilling but leads him to be manipulated by wicked Lien Huan. Li's childhood sweetheart, Hsiao Yue endures an abusive relationship with Lien and pays the ultimate price for continuing to love Li Mak-jan. Hua's defeat at the hands of Li with his own sword is a revelation as to the evils in his life that come back to haunt him and his unwillingness to let go of his ambition. Yuen Chi, a friend of Hua who had unwittingly handed the sword to Li felt responsible for his death, thanks in part to the accusations thrown at her by Hua's daughter, Ying Chih. Ying's carefree lifestyle is shattered by the death of her father and she lashes out without thought. The only characters who seemingly are bereft of any internal struggle are the main villains, Lien Huan and his silent assassin who live and die without remorse. Having two-dimensional antagonists and a few campy death scenes are the only real detractors to the film.

The choreography was well done with some wirework and kinetic angles that became staples of Hong Kong cinema a decade later. Its unfortunate that this was Patrick Tam's only martial arts film. Yet like his more prolific contemporary Tsui Hark, Patrick influenced HK cinema by pushing for higher standards and combining modern film techniques with traditional Chinese sensibilities. "The Sword" stands as a significant contribution to martial arts cinema that successfully blends varying elements of filmmaking into a unique and masterful work of art.