Forget the Matrix. Forget pale US imitations like Rush Hour or Romeo Must Die. This just might be the best martial arts movie ever. Not because the fight scenes are awesome (they are) and the star suitably iconic (he is). But because this is a real movie, with a real plot and a genuine cinematic feel to it. Director Tsui Hark seems to have gotten some help by the ghost of Sergio Leone, and brings an entire age to life. This is a kung fu movie made like you always wanted them to be. And it has the funniest racially stereotyped villains (white Americans!) ever put on film. 10/10. Part II is almost as good.
Review of Once Upon a Time in China
