Author: Andrew Saroch

For those seeking a fast-paced fantasy film with no pretensions, ‘The 13 Cold-Blooded Eagles’ fits the bill very well and, while not comparable to genre classics like ‘Swordsman II’, is worth a look.

What may sound like an unpleasant crime thriller because of the concept and title is actually another of the comedy films that Chow Yun-Fat made earlier in his career.

An extraordinary story about how ordinary people cope with the very worst that can happen and how love is a remarkable bond.

A worthy addition to any avid kung fu fan’s DVD library as it hits all the right beats, benefits from some impressive photography and features some interesting, well staged and even downright barmy fighting styles.

‘Young Detective Dee: Rise Of The Sea Dragon’ is involving fare with enough action and impetus to distract the most critical eye.

‘Yo-Yo Girl Cop’ is at its best when it gives the viewers the off-kilter action they expect with the yo-yo duel at the end proving to be one of the highlights.

The lead characters are completely uninvolving and most of the actors make no attempt to fight against the lacklustre writing.

With some excellent, grounded choreography and a number of allusions to genre legends this is a mature martial arts film that respects its roots.

Long gone are the days of high-impact fight scenes; now protagonists, even those as skilled as Vincent Zhao, bounce off of each other like playmates in a wind-tunnel.

As the film unfolds the perspective gets murky and Wai Ka-Fai’s juggling of the various elements comes into question.

This is a lustrous production that flatters to deceive, aiming for the intellect, but eventually preferring to show empty spectacle and supposed depth.

‘The World Of Treasure’ notches up the odd moment of entertainment during its course and arouses sporadic interest. However, as a Michael Hui film, or even a general Hong Kong comedy it is found wanting.