Rating: 4.0

Chang Cheh delivers a multi-layered kung-fu drama that is ripe with excellent characterisation and well-choreographed action.

It’s not a perfect film – the quirky moments are sometimes a bit too overdone and the pace is slightly inconsistent – but it is a nice surprise.

Buoyed by Fukasaku’s energetic direction, copious action, and some still to this day impressive special effects, ‘Message from Space’ delights in being two hours of ambitious infectious fun.

‘Messengers’ takes time to gain momentum, but when it does the two-hour running time flies by effortlessly.

Fresh, funny, exciting and full of snappy action, ‘Midnight Runners’ is a joyous ride, rarely missing a beat from first frame until last.

Newcomers will enjoy the fight action, the slightly more experienced will also appreciate the comedy and the veteran viewer will be entertained by the great cast.

A nutty, wondrous and at times exhilarating action adventure, ‘Mirage’ encapsulates all of the elements that generated such impetus during Hong Kong cinema’s 80s swansong.

The bottom line is that ‘Monkey Kung Fu’ is a highly recommended gem with a cast that doesn’t feature the genres big names, but still outshines many better known films.

It may not be to everyone’s taste but ‘Moon And Cherry’ is a little heard of gem, which features excellent performances and a mature view on some serious and saucy subject matter.

Instead of just relying on popular new-wave gimmicks, Sammo pushes each of the actors to their limit and, even though there is liberal use of stunt doubles, the effect is impressive to behold.

A beautifully and intricately crafted film that is given an emotional heart thanks to Kim Hye-ja and while it has lots more to say than just simply thrill, is still also an often gripping thriller.

While it may lack the tension of some of the other Kaiju films, ‘Mothra’ makes for a very refreshing entry into the genre that provides more of a sense of fun than ferocity.