Cast Member: Chow Yun-Fat

It may be a throwback, perhaps an antiquated one to some, but in an era of uninspiring cinema, it’s strangely welcome.

A great set up is unfortunately wasted via odd creative choices, too much focus on comedy-romance and a reliance on grating theatrics.

Not the best example of heroic bloodshed from the golden age but an entertaining footnote in the careers of heavy hitters Chow Yun-Fat and Andy Lau, and certainly worth checking out for completists.

‘Shanghai’ is an entertaining watch buoyed by an impressive cast which features several Eastern superstars showing they can hold their own against some of Hollywood’s finest.

It hasn’t got the sheer confidence and brash brilliance of ‘Red Cliff’, yet it is a welcome addition to the crowded sub-genre of Three Kingdoms movies.

‘The Corruptor’ makes for an enjoyable ride that is far superior to Chow’s previous introduction to an international audience.

‘The Diary Of A Big Man’ is not ‘laugh-out-loud’ comedy, but is recommended to all Chow Yun-Fat fans as it contains enough elements to make it a highly entertaining film.

This is an average comedy film with little to make it stand out and viewers would be better advised watching ‘Diary Of A Big Man’ if they want to see one of Chow Yun-Fat’s comic roles.

‘The Fun, The Luck And The Tycoon’ is not hilarious or particularly side-splitting, but the humour is such that it hits the mark in a subtle manner.

The final word therefore is that ‘The Greatest Lover’ is certainly worth catching, but there are simply too many annoyances for this to be anything special.

It’s amazingly stylish with a brilliantly constructed story and some superb shoot-outs. If you call yourself an action movie fan then this one is going to be right up your alley!

This film has no happy endings or easy ways out; it grips on to its audience and just refuses to let go.