All Film Reviews

‘Shadow Master’ is some fight packed fright fun for the most part that sticks to its own path and certainly delivers some superb fight sequences for the fight film fans out there.

Masayuki Suo has constructed an often hilarious comedy mixed with a tender kernel that proves to be irresistible.

It’s gonna be a love it or loathe it kind of movie as it’s not the dark, vicious film I expected, although there are some disturbing scenes thrown in there.

‘Shanghai’ is an entertaining watch buoyed by an impressive cast which features several Eastern superstars showing they can hold their own against some of Hollywood’s finest.

The action lacks any spark or excitement and the narrative fails to grab onto the viewer in the slightest.

‘Shanghai Blues’ is, overall, superior entertainment, but by the time the end credits roll its hard not to think of what might have been.

Despite its laudable aims, ‘Shanghai Fever’ suffers from its mixed messages and a confusion over what the film’s intention is.

After my thoughts that he might well be resigned to uninspiring Hollywood fodder, I’m glad to eat humble pie and say that ‘Shanghai Knights’ contains some of his best action in recent years.

‘Shanghai Noon’ is not as action packed or original as some of Chan’s early efforts, but it is still one of his best American outings to date.

If you’re a fan of Biao or Sammo, this will make an unremarkable, but enjoyable addition to your collection; if you’re indifferent to either, the chances are you will feel the same about this film.

The dramatic framework is sturdy enough to make ‘Shaolin’ emotionally engaging, while the Yuen Kwai-orchestrated action is a delightful throwback to the Golden Age.

There are some plot holes that become apparent as the film continues, but good quality action and a fine cast cover a multitude of sins.

Frivolous of plot it may be but director Huang Ta makes up for the lack of narrative meat by stuffing the film with superb fight action.

Liu lights up the screen with his explosive bootwork while Jack Long and the endearing Blacky Ko provide extra physical presence.

It boasts some top notch fight scenes which are further enhanced by another standout performance from the late great Lo Lieh.

‘Shaolin Intruders’ doesn’t offer any of the genre-defining moments that leap out of the true masterpieces of the genre.

‘Shaolin Kung Fu’ is really just a series of weak fight sequences strung together by a paper thin plot.

Although ‘Shaolin Mantis’ is a well made and above average, it undoubtedly disappoints when compared with Liu Chia-Liang’s best work.

Although an above average kung-fu flick (as you’d expect from Chang Cheh) this is one of the weakest of the Venoms films.

As is often the case with Chow’s movies, what really sets it apart from other outings in the genre is the inclusion of a heartfelt story.

‘Shaolin Temple’ is still a major achievement by a film-maker who was one of the true creators of the genre. There is, therefore, plenty to put this near the top of your viewing list.

‘Shaolin Vs. Lama’ is a notch above most Taiwanese chop sockies simply because Lee Tso-Nam knows how to keep it interesting.

The fight scenes are about the film’s only saving grace but even they aren’t enough to make it a worthwhile watch.

It’s certainly not perfect and not among Jackie Chan’s best films, but there is ample entertainment value.