Cast Member: JoJo Chan

It’s such a shame that one of Lam’s more appealing roles is hamstrung by unusually poor direction from Tsui Hark.

Ricky Hui therefore ensures that this is entertaining despite its very unpredictable nature making it an acquired taste.

This film could be recommended alone for it’s exceptional fight action, but as you’d expect from this cast there’s much more on offer.

With an apparent allusion to the multi-layered swordplay novels of Gu Long and Louis Cha, this is a story that revels in its twists and hidden motives.

Despite being made in the early 80s, the choreography lacks the invention and energy common to this era. This, for many viewers, may be the main problem that hinders ‘The Emperor And His Brother’.

During a period where comedy punctuated every kung-fu flick of the time, director Patrick Tam creates a very sombre martial arts drama and never allows the tension to drop.