Genre: History

‘Edge of the Empire’ just doesn’t live up to its potential, takes itself too seriously to be cheesy fun and is recommended only to die hard historical epic fans.

‘Fong Sai Yuk’ may not be the best kung fu film ever made, but it doesn’t disappoint and is highly recommended viewing.

Chances are, if you’re a fan of Japanese war history or the Goemon legend, you’ll be pleased as punch with this update. Even if you’re not, Ninja action has never been so beautiful.

An incredible samurai film and a classic piece of Japanese filmmaking this is old school filmmaking and storytelling at its best.

‘Hero’ has shown that an exquisitely photographed film does not always have to be a case of style over substance.

‘Heroes Two’ is not one of the definitive collaborations between Chang Cheh and Fu Sheng, but it offers quality in most departments.

It’s a solid study of the strains that sudden fame has on friendship, especially when the screaming girls and management team are favouring two members over the whole five.

This fourth go around for Yen and director Yip with the Ip saga is as solid as ever from the duo but pales in comparison to the first two instalments.

‘Legend Of The Fist’ is a film that promises so much but delivers far less, especially considering this is a collaboration between Donnie Yen and Andrew Lau.

‘My Way’ is a based-on-true-events film with significant embellishments and dramatic orchestration. Of course, that’s not to say it isn’t very affecting overall though.

‘Operation Chromite’ isn’t much different from any other recent big budget Korean war epic but on its own well produced terms and commitment to delivering spectacle, certainly entertains.

Despite having no conclusion of its own, all of the groundwork of the characterisation and story make the next chapter an exciting prospect.