This is a fantasy action movie set in ancient China, where a swordsman named Fragrant Chu (Aaron Kwok) seeks the legendary liquid sword to battle an evil warlock dubbed Batman (Ji-Wai Lau).
Filled with colorful costumes and luscious landscapes, this is a pretty adventurous film from start to finish, boasting some sophisticated martial arts and sword-wielding action. Kwok played an OK lead in the movie, being wooden at times in his performance. However, the story is supported by a large cast of characters, most notably Chingmy Yau who plays Flowerless opposite Kwok. The pair had some touching chemistry and romantic moments together that gave the film a dramatic touch.
Other actresses include Gloria Yip, Anita Yuen and Winnie Lau, who played the ditsy handmaidens Red, Sweetie and Ron, Loletta Lee as Batman's lover; Fennie Yuen as the swords-woman Chung Yuan; Sharla Cheung as the Jellyfish, keeper of the liquid sword; and Wong Wan-Si as Sea Weed, who provided most of the comic relief in the movie.
You feel you are along for the ride in this adventurous film; however, I thought the plot was rushed, leaving few room for character development, plot twists and suspense. Overall though, it's still not a bad adventure/fantasy/comedic film - a good mixture of the three.
Grade B-
3 out of 3 found this helpful