| Derek Yee is the master swordsman who wants to leave that life behind but the swordsman-world isn't about to let him go that easy. Chor Yuengives us another marvelous, yet slightly artificial looking production, action choreography of high quality (by Tong Gaai & Wong Pau Gei) but doesn't fully make his downbeat depiction of the world hit home at the emotional center (The Bastard was a better example of the director hitting all the right notes). Also, the narrative seems too repetitive at times, leading to action scene upon action scene. That's not a bad thing but one expected more sophistication from a Gu Long adaptation and director Chor Yuen. It's definitely worthy of a watch though for positive reasons mentioned and for the chance to see a young Derek Yee, before becoming one of Hong Kong's most acclaimed directors. He has decent presence even if another superstar, veteran Shaw Brother's player might've elevated the film. Chu Yuan also references his other works through the cameos of Ti Lung (as his character from Magic Blade) and Lo Lieh (Killer Clans ). Also with Candy Yu, David Chiang, Ling Yung, Fan Mei Sheng and Ku Feng. |
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