Release Year: 1990

This is a modern day martial arts actioner in the style of the 80’s best, and should therefore be sought out by fans of similar fare. It will not disappoint.

Plenty of fight sequences, which are high-tempo, well choreographed affairs, if a little short by Hong Kong standards.

There is not as much fighting as older Sammo films, but what is on show is up to his modern-day best – also showcasing Sammo’s last great physical performance.

If the rest of the film had been as good as the last half hour then ‘Prince of the Sun’ would be more fondly remembered.

Part three has none of the charm of the original and doesn’t even stack up well against the second part; this is a lazy, charmless affair that had me looking at the clock every couple of minutes.

‘Return Engagement’ is cut from much the same cloth as many gangster films of the era but differentiates itself with a stronger core storyline.

If you’re a fan of Biao or Sammo, this will make an unremarkable, but enjoyable addition to your collection; if you’re indifferent to either, the chances are you will feel the same about this film.

A simple and fast moving story about a tough female cops, is told with style, if not great direction, by Yuen Kwai.

Another superb Sammo film which sees him team up with Karl Maka for more hijinks.

Despite never straying towards originality and unlikely to win awards, there’s still an admirable mixture of action and drama to commend.

‘Swordsman’ is not as strong as its superior sequel and the aforementioned difficulties are all apparent, but it is still an ultimately rewarding film.

The scenery is pleasant, but if a film review has to consist of that line as a recommendation then the audience should know what to expect.