Genre: Martial Arts

Taking a popular narrative and adding a unique sense of charm to it, Yuen Woo-Ping creates a strangely captivating atmosphere with a familiar cast.

Sure everything in-between the violent clashes on the court is a little amateur but the point of the film is to showcase an original, if unlikely, martial arts sport and on those terms ‘Fireball’ delivers.

Vitally, ‘First Strike’ is still full of the energy and invention that leaves so many other action films pale in comparison.

At every turn, the film constantly subverts expectations, creating situations that initially seem all-too familiar before sending them in unexpected, often hilarious directions.

‘Fist From Shaolin’ really stands out with its powerful choreography which, even after numerous other fine new-wave productions, remains very impressive.

In all, this is the definitive martial arts movie. An all time classic which is as good as an all round film as it as a Kung Fu flick.

Although still quite a way off classic standards, ‘Fist Of Fury II’ just goes to show that it is possible to make a “Bruceploitation” flick that is fun to watch.

In my opinion, this is Jet Li’s best work as he carries the film well, performing brilliantly in the films numerous fight sequences.

‘Fist Power’ is a very thin framework onto which a few interesting action scenes are hung and should not be treated as a classic of the genre.

The plot and characterisation are very weak but there’s enough about the fights to keep a kung fu fan watching till the end.

Undemanding fun that benefits from a likeable cast, a vibe that just wants to entertain, and lots of shiny fight action.

This is, in all honestly, a very bad film. However, if it were purely being judged on the action, then it would easily gain 3 stars.