Rating: 4.0

This splendid period kung-fu film once again gives evidence of the immense quality that rolled out of the Shaw Brothers studios during the 70’s.

‘Disciples Of The 36th Chamber’ is a quality film; from the choreography to Liu Chia-Liang’s artistically composed frames, this is a more sophisticated kung fu film.

The Korean hit makes ample use of the fine chemistry between its two main stars and the inherent interest generated by such a workable premise.

Liu provides a more than acceptable ‘Don Quixote-lite’, a necessarily truncated interpretation that will hopefully inspire some to read the Cervantes masterpiece in full.

Great characters, action and design make this an excellent fantasy adventure which harks back to the fun time fantasies such as ‘Willow’, ‘A Chinese Ghost Story’ and, yes, even ‘Krull’.

Jackie Chan is given one of his more serious roles and succeeds in giving a fine performance both in the acting and the fighting departments.

‘Dragon Inn’ doesn’t quite compete with ‘A Touch Of Zen’ and ‘Come Drink With Me’, but anything to be criticised here is a mere niggle rather than a detrimental flaw.

Chan tries to introduce the new quick-cut style of action alongside a significant measure of pure entertainment and humour.

Don’t compare it to Yen and Yip’s ‘SPL’ or ‘Flashpoint’, just sit back and enjoy a good old fashioned comic book blockbuster with heaps of kung fu action.

All in all, it’s a solid slice of entertainment that presents a charming if somewhat inaccurate account of Lee’s life.

The film provides a really fun and family friendly take on the genre, as well as giving a knowing glance in the direction of traditional kung fu movie fans.

Chan and Hung continue to substantiate their legendary status in the cinematic hall of fame, but it is Yuen Biao who really steals the film.