Country: Taiwan

‘The Cavalier’ is a below par effort from Joseph Kuo, a director who should know better.

Few genre films have achieved the cult status that ‘The Crippled Masters’ has and, thanks to a lovely remastered release from Film Masters, it can finally reach a wider audience.

There are no true “scares” to be had in Chen’s film, at least not in the traditional horror genre sense, but there are some bona fide moments of dread that will dig in and crawl under one’s skin.

‘The Idiot Swordsman’ is a disappointing use of cast and concept, choosing to tread very tired ground rather than explore the full potential of the story.

Though the comedy is perhaps too obtrusive at times and does little to advance the film, there is lots to offer fans of the genre.

The film is at times prey to quick-cut, music video camera work, but there is enough heart in this quirky little gem to ensure there is plenty of substance alongside the style.

While it may not be the most original entry into the genre, ‘The Mar’s Villa’ contains just the right mix of drama and intrigue interspersed with a number of enthralling action scenes.

It’s just disappointing that the obvious craft at work by the experienced crew on ‘The Revenger’ never quite translates into a solid, coherent whole.

Overall this is an interesting, thoughtful collection of stories that shows promise. Yet it is once again a film whose historical significance leaves more of an impression than the material therein.

The Super Ninja’ comes very close to becoming a highly recommended film on action merits alone.

A somewhat straightforward, and at times melodramatic, narrative is given heft by the committed cast, stunning cinematography and set design, and fantastic swordplay action.

Much more than a trashy quickie horror sequel than many might be expecting, ‘The Tag-Along 2’ is an entertaining ghostly romp that when on form, expertly blends drama and frights.