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Daniel Lee's career in the film industry has long divided the critics and fans with his over stylised direction, roller coaster of hits and misses, and sometimes muddled story telling. Personally though, I'm a huge fan!
Having started his directing career with films set in modern times (such as the popular Black Mask, A Fighters Blues, and Dragon Squad - although not forgetting his debut with What Price Survival which was set in the past), Lee soon took a new approach for his next slate of films offering a step back in time with historical epics beginning with the fantastic Three Kingdoms: Resurrection of the Dragon.
14 Blades came next and although a thriller, was lighter on tone and drama - and to me, resulted in one of the best films of his career so far, both as a director and writer. Of course, that was aided by a fantastic cast in the shape of the great Donnie Yen, wonderful Vikki Zhao Wei, gorgeous Chun Wu, and bevy of HK cinema legends such as Sammo, Wu Ma, Fong Hak On, Chen Kuan Tai and many more.
Beautifully shot and acted, the film never loses steam and has a few small hiccups in the form of some dodgy CGI - although never too distracting to be honest. With a little humour dusted along the way, the main plot is fairly simple although strengthened by the story of humanity and romance - and of course, the swordplay and kung fu scenes which are fantastic.
For a film made in 2010, this could easily slip in alongside 90's classics such as the Swordsman trilogy, The Bride with White Hair, Moon Warriors, etc. And while it may not go down as a classic or end up in anyone's top ten, it certainly should not be forgotten about. Donnie Yen carries his lead role brilliantly, kicking ass pretty much the whole way through, and finishing with an end battle reminiscent of a scene from the classic Zu Warriors.
And on that note - regarding the amazing Sammo Hung, his role here is mainly a non-action cameo, so don't be expecting any battles between him and Yen like their rumble in the awesome SPL...
Overall: Stunningly shot, action packed and never dull, 14 Blades is one of Daniel Lee's best films!
score 8/10
Movie-Misfit 3 October 2019
Reprint: https://www.imdb.com/review/rw5159247/ |
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20-4-2021 00:33:08