Genre: Martial Arts

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.

‘Out For Blood’ was clearly inspired by other (better) vigilante movies but it never really comes close to accomplishing anything that stands out from the crowd.

The fight action is apologetic, the comedy forced and the complete package a grave disservice to the young audience it was obviously intended for.

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.

The third instalment in the ‘SPL’ franchise sees original director Wilson Yip return for another dark crime tale that doesn’t skimp on the nihilism or the hard edged fight action.

The final reel is raw power and energy as Sammo takes on a small army of goons before meeting his match in Billy Chow.

The real draw, and the skill of Chor Yuen, is to make an ensemble of eccentrics, oddball antagonists and superheroes appealing and a means of covering up the unapologetic holes in the narrative.

‘Police Story’ is one of the finest examples of 80’s Hong Kong cinema, with so many amazing elements that make it a joy to behold.

Despite its finale, ‘Police Story 2’ is worthy edition to any JC collection, and another example of how Hollywood action is made to look pathetic in comparison.

This is another great slice of entertainment JC style, and was one of his best performances before his physical shape noticeably began to deteriorate in the mid-90’s.