9/10
Watch it for the fights, rewatch it for the dialogue.
19 March 2023
Fights are quick and swiftly executed in the most minimal of moves. The sound are amazing when fighters utilises an assortment of lethal weapons making it an unmatched, realistic and unforgettable hand to hand combat ever since 'sha po lang' (Kill Zone). The dialogue may be cumbersome to some and requires repeated viewing. Shot in Northern City of Tianjin in 40s China, I now understand a little why then it's called the 'sick man of Asia' - Elitism, cronyism and unquestioned tradition. Just look how easy it was for the Madam to have the entire city in the palm of her hands.

That's when our protagonist showed up. Late to the game in a hostile territory. But no matter, he thought good intentions, unmatched skill and strong resolve is enough, until time and ego gets in the way, ego meaning the end justify the means thinking. Alas, everything goes to hell I the end but our guy accepted his fate and choose by revenge over mission.

Who can believe their eye when a Master takes off from his last word, (exit stage left!) and I laughed out loud when all the madam can sigh is 'you see now, Southernmen can't be trusted' and all the drones nodded in unison. Tradition, tradition. There are so many excellent dialogue and definitely warrants a rewatch.
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