SWORDSMAN

This dizzying wuxia whirlwind revived the genre for the Nineties and paved the way for a new wave of high-flying swordplay spectaculars (including two sequels). Initiated by legendary filmmaker King Hu though ultimately completed by a team of directors led by producer Tsui Hark, SWORDSMAN is crammed with incident even by the standards of the genre. The breathless plot follows a good-natured young warrior (Sam Hui, ACES GO PLACES) who’s drawn into the intrigue surrounding a stolen scroll containing supernatural secrets. Despite its tumultuous production, SWORDSMAN proves an intoxicating blend of Hark’s kinetic style and Hu’s touch of zen.