Writer: Lam Kee-To

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

For those that hate the frequent use of wire-fu (like me), you better look elsewhere as action choreography for this film relies heavily upon its use.

There is little to redeem this movie, with drama non existent, plot structure meandering all over the place and awful comedy at inappropriate moments.

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

Yu’s extravagant use of colour and innovative camera techniques are extremely pleasing, but in no way make up for the lack of depth missing from the rest of the film.

An interesting premise is given a reasonable treatment by experienced director Herman Yau and well-played by a very capable cast.

With a predictable script and some seriously under-par actors, it was never really going to amount to much more than a set of average fight sequences.