Country: Hong Kong

Without any argument, ‘One-Armed Swordsman’ is therefore a quality swordplay film that has much to offer to viewers today.

The over-the-top style that is often associated with this sub-genre of comedy may not be to everyone’s taste, but it remains entertaining and raises the odd chuckle.

What the potential viewers will get with this enjoyable production is a solid combination of some amusing comedy scenes, a few dramatic moments and a couple of well choreographed action sequences.

This film has been elevated to cult status in recent years and has become a huge favourite with a world-wide audience. All of this is thoroughly deserved.

‘Opium and the Kung Fu Master’ is top-notch old school action but it can’t quite get away from some things that used to mar such films.

For anyone who wants something a bit different from Hong Kong’s blockbusters, this may be a worthwhile purchase. Be warned, though, that ‘Osaka Wrestling Restaurant’ is not going to be to everyone’s taste.

‘Our Time Will Come’ is another excellent Ann Hui film, but it’s Zhou Xun’s aptitude that lingers after the running time ends.

A well-scripted, superbly executed thriller with a formidable triumvirate at the centre, this could well be one of the best genre films to have come from Asia in the past few years.

While ‘Overheard’ was an excellent homage to the great American conspiracy films of the 70s, the in-name-only sequel is a more routine two hours with a far less incisive denouement.

Wordy, but with nothing to say, this is a verbose movie populated by monumentally dull characters and bland ‘twists’ that fail to hold the attention.

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.

Although Sammo and Maggie rarely create any convincing chemistry, the film contains enough action and laughs to entertain most Hong Kong fans.