Superb Action, Lack-luster story

Rating: 8/10 (2 October 2011)

First, this is a MUST-SEE for any martial arts film lovers. The fight choreography is innovative and superbly executed. Sammo Hung choreographed and Donnie Yen performed. It really doesn't get much better than that. The fighting style was elegant yet realistic. Even if you know some of the moves must have been done with wire-work, it still doesn't take away from the sense of realism they try to give there.
Acting was on par. Anyone familiar with Yen's previous world would find his turn as the soft-spoken master Ip a pleasant surprise. This role seems to fit him perfectly. I enjoyed the bits about Ip's family life in the beginning of the film.
However, labeling this as "biopic" is a big misnomer for this film. All the events were too obviously dramatized. And my main issue with this movie is the story itself. It isn't much of anything new. It's quite a contrive plot line and became way too nationalistic (in a very trite, Hollywood way) at the end. Just overlook the weak and facile story line and you'll find a SUPERBLY entertaining movie.
Besides, the action alone energized the genre and more than compensated for any defect. As a fan of this genre, I am compelled to give it a high score!