Country: Taiwan

It’s not intended to be a stinging critique, but more an affectionate look at something that weaves together every culture on the planet: the way we mourn.

Shi Runjiu’s film is a modest production with flaws in certain key areas, but remains a genuinely interesting film.

Anyone who has seen everything that Jackie, Sammo and Yuen have offered could do a lot worse than endure Chu Yen Ping’s messy action comedy.

‘A City Called Dragon’ is one of many 70s Taiwanese action films that deserve a wider audience and hopefully modest reviews like this can help.

For anyone who wants a blast of what exceptional imaginations used to do with minor budgets, ‘A Heroic Fight’ will refresh more than it will befuddle.

It is a film that deserves to be watched by fans of all genres though and, alongside classics like ‘Come Drink With Me’, acts as a perfect portfolio for the late, great King Hu.

Once again, Wu Ma has delivered an independent genre flick that is involving, utilising his excellent cast well and making a very predictable story about revenge something a little different.

Unfortunately, ‘Beauty Escort’ is no old school classic and should probably only be viewed by complete-ists, or after you have exhausted many (many) other old school kung fu flicks or very late at night with a buddy who can make fun of it with you.

‘Cape No.7’ is an ensemble production whose success is tied up with its exploration of Taiwan’s southernmost area, its use of localised flavour and copious amounts of colloquial humour.

‘Challenge Of Death’ was always going to provide some exhilarating action thanks to the collection of captivating combatants, but the story certainly leaves a lot to be desired.

The fights are almost seamlessly integrated and amongst some of the best on offer for a few years even if they are not new by Jade screen standards.

Chan’s choreography is the only minor highlight, but otherwise this is really only suitable for hardcore Angela Mao fans.