War

I'm a big fan of martial arts cinema. Especialy when it features some of my favourite leading actors - Jet Li being one of them. Where most American productions miss the point of Hong Kong cinema, ie. the superb coreography, this film comes pretty close.

The plot involves a mysterious killer (Jet Li) playing off two rival gangs in San Fransisco. His every move being watched by eager cop Jason Statham who believes Li is the same assasian who murdered his old partner along with his wife and son. Usual revenge motivation bolloks then...

The story is hardly important though, you come to see a film like this for the action which it delivers in spades. There are some pretty exciting car chases and shoot-outs but the film really comes into it's own when Jet Li gets to do his thing. The coreography, which i mentioned before, is classic Hong Kong style. Li is still an amazing martial artist and he really gets to show it off in this movie, a long and elaborate sword fight being a particular highlight.

There are downsides. The plot goes from non-existent in the first half to needlessly complicated in the second with a "twist" ending that can best be described as ridiculous. Also Jason Stathem tries to extend his acting range beyond "English and Hard" with a few teary eyed scenes that are pretty cringe-worthy.

If you are up for some dumb but fun popcorn fodder i would still recomend this. It has some good edge of the seat action moments and Jet Li's charasmatic central performance is hugely enjoyable.

overall 7 out of 10